Question

My mother, 62, is suffering from breast cancer stage 2. She has been operated on successfully. She also has undergone 3 cycles of chemo and one 25-day cycle of radiation. I would like to know what her diet should be.

Answer

The side effects of chemotherapy can be rotten, but they must be measured against the treatment's ability to destroy cancer.

Generally speaking, if chemotherapy patients are experiencing taste alterations and aversions to food, here are some general tips:

- Give bland foods. Avoid strong flavors like spices, acidic foods, and sour tasting foods.

- Provide cold foods; avoid hot or warm foods.

- Avoid giving foods with strong odors.

- If someone is experiencing severe nausea, avoid offering them their "favorite food" unless they request it. Eating a particular food during severe bouts of nausea may cause them to develop an aversion to it.

"What can I do if I have nausea and vomiting?"

Medicines can help prevent some side effects such as nausea. Drink liquids at least an hour before or after mealtime, instead of with your meals. Drink frequently and drink small amounts. Eat and drink slowly. Eat small meals throughout the day, instead of one, two, or three large meals. Eat foods cold, or at room temperature, so you won't be bothered by strong smells.

Chew your food well for easier digestion. If nausea is a problem in the morning, try eating dry foods like cereal, toast, or crackers before getting up. (Do not try this if you have mouth or throat sores or are troubled by a lack of saliva.)

Drink cool, clear, unsweetened fruit juices, such as apple or grape juice or light-colored sodas such as ginger ale that have lost their fizz and do not have caffeine. (To take out the fizz add one teaspoon of sugar to the fizzy drink and stir.)

Suck on mints, or candies. (Do not use tart candies if you have mouth or throat sores.)

Prepare and freeze meals in advance for days when you do not feel like cooking.

Wear loose-fitting clothes. Breathe deeply and slowly when you feel nauseated.

Distract yourself by chatting with friends or family members, listening to music, or watching a movie or TV show. Use relaxation techniques.

Try to avoid odors that bother you, such as cooking smells, smoke, or perfume.

Avoid eating for at least a few hours before treatment if nausea usually occurs during chemotherapy, or eat a light meal before treatment, if you can.

Links

• Diet and Chemotherapy