Simple Ways to Eat Well During Cancer Treatment
Maintaining good nutrition is essential for overall health, but when facing cancer treatment, eating well becomes even more critical. Cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can significantly impact appetite, digestion, and the body’s ability to absorb nutrients. Despite these challenges, choosing the right foods can help manage side effects, support the immune system, and improve overall well-being.
At Hope Abounds, we understand the unique struggles cancer patients face with nutrition and are committed to providing guidance and resources to help patients and families make informed choices about their diet.
Common Nutrition Challenges During Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment often comes with a range of side effects that impact eating habits, making it difficult for patients to maintain proper nourishment. Elizabeth Barnes, co-founder of Hope Abounds, shares some of the most common nutrition challenges she has seen:
Decreased Appetite – Treatments can reduce hunger, leading to inadequate calorie and nutrient intake.
Nausea & Vomiting – Keeping food down can be difficult, leading to dehydration and weight loss.
Taste Changes – Food may taste metallic, bitter, or bland, making eating unappealing.
Mouth Sores & Dry Mouth – Soft, moist foods and sugar-free lozenges may provide relief.
Weight Loss & Malnutrition – Patients may struggle with unintentional weight loss, requiring high-calorie, high-protein foods.
"This is why we encourage good nourishment and eating habits," Elizabeth explains. "Choosing to eat healthier during treatment can lead to better health outcomes after treatment and into the future."
How Hope Abounds Supports Nutrition for Cancer Patients
Hope Abounds provides resources and guidance to help patients navigate dietary challenges during treatment. One of the key ways we support nutrition is through our collaboration with Storehouse Wellness.
Storehouse Wellness Partnership – This online platform provides hundreds of virtual programs on healthy eating, meal planning, and creative recipes to help patients stay nourished despite treatment side effects. Patients can access this through the Hope Abounds website and Patient Resource Binder.
Patient Resource Binder – This essential guide includes nutritional information, meal ideas, and guidance to help patients make informed food choices during treatment.
These resources give patients practical tools to maintain proper nutrition and stay strong throughout treatment and beyond.
Key Nutrition Tips for Cancer Patients
To help manage the effects of cancer treatment, patients and caregivers can focus on a few key areas:
1. Managing Treatment Side Effects
Eat small, frequent meals to help with nausea.
Try ginger tea or bland foods for an upset stomach.
Use citrus, herbs, or marinades to enhance flavors for taste changes.
Choose soft, moist foods to ease mouth sores.
2. Strengthening the Immune System
Focus on a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and lean proteins.
Follow safe food-handling practices to avoid infections.
3. Preventing Malnutrition & Weight Loss
Incorporate high-calorie, high-protein snacks like smoothies, nuts, and yogurt.
Consider nutritional supplements if food intake is insufficient.
4. Hydration & Managing Fatigue
Stay hydrated with water, broths, and electrolyte-rich drinks.
Choose energy-boosting snacks like whole grains and healthy fats.
5. Post-Treatment & Long-Term Nutrition
Eat a plant-based diet with lean proteins, whole foods, and fiber-rich meals.
Focus on long-term dietary strategies to maintain overall health and strength.
Live as a Thriver, Not Just a Survivor
At Hope Abounds, we believe that good nutrition is not just about surviving cancer, it’s about thriving beyond it. Whether you're in active treatment or working toward long-term recovery, making mindful, healthy food choices can help you feel your best.
For more resources and guidance, explore our collaboration with Storehouse Wellness and access nutrition-focused content through Hope Abounds’ Patient Resource Binder.
Visit Hope Abounds to learn more!