Let A Cancer Nutritionist Help You Eat When You Can’t

Are you having trouble eating? Most people experience this issue when they undergo cancer treatment, particularly during the chemotherapy period. If you’re dealing with the same issue, this write-up may prove useful. The absence of appetite is one of the most common side effects experienced by patients, and can sprout from various factors, including the condition itself, its treatment methods, specific medicines, nausea, constipation, fatigue, depression, and anxiety. It’s challenging for patients to eat enough food to meet the body’s energy requirements. Nonetheless, you can’t avoid eating, and the following strategies will help.

Schedule your meals: If you need to see a Cancer nutritionist from Dietitian Fit & Co, it’s clear that your appetite is unreliable right now. Waiting for your body to tell you to eat will prevent you from consuming enough food to support the recovery and healing procedures. That’s why you should set aside time for meals daily as part of your personal care routine. Begin with four smaller meals while planning your meal times realistically. You should also consider how long it takes you to finish eating.

 

1. Concentrate your calories: Another method suggested by a Cancer nutritionist involves concentrating the calories in foods. It means you can consume a smaller portion of food with the same calorific value. You have to make sure that you add various types of fats to your meals and pay attention to the items that’ll fill you up without providing the calories you require. For instance, you should eat full-fat dairy instead of no-fat. Add mild oils or creams to foods you like, such as oatmeal and soups.

 

2. Include protein: When you get enough protein and the appropriate amount of calories, you can tolerate the side effects of cancer treatment. Protein helps you maintain strength and supports the immune system. The amount of protein you need will depend on specific factors, though. These include your weight, height, activity level, and treatment type. So, you shouldn’t hesitate to indulge in some form of protein whenever you eat. The best sources include eggs, cheese, nuts, meats, dairy products, and protein powder.

 

3. Calorie-rich beverages: When chewing becomes disgusting and fatigue sets in, you should try drinking your meals instead of eating them. You can consume a combination of drinks to help meet your requirements. Suggestions include fruit-based smoothies made with nut butter or milkshakes with full-fat ice cream. You may also try ready-to-drink nutrition supplement drinks and even blended soups with added calories and protein.

Other fluids

It’s better to drink low to no-calorie fluids between means. Any fluid, including water, can give you a feeling of fullness. If you drink enough liquids with your meals, consider saving the beverages between your meals. After all, hydration is crucial. In doing so, you can save enough room in your stomach for foods or high-calorie or protein drinks that provide the nourishment you need. If you need more information, you should get in touch with a dietitian excelling in catering to cancer patients.