What Foods You Should Eat and Avoid During Cancer Treatment

What to Eat

Cancer treatments can wear down the body, so eating foods rich in energy and nutrients is essential. Here is a healthy diet for cancer patients:

Small Amounts of Protein

Lean proteins are a cornerstone of a cancer patient’s diet, as they help repair tissues and maintain muscle mass. Foods like skinless chicken, fish, eggs, beans, and Greek yogurt are excellent protein sources and are generally easy to digest.

Wholegrains

Grains with complex carbohydrates and fiber can help maintain blood sugar levels and digestive health. Try including whole wheat bread, brown rice, or oatmeal. These foods also provide B vitamins essential for metabolism and cell repair.

Fruits and Vegetables

Dark leafy greens and colorful fruits have antioxidants, which help reduce the oxidative stress from cancer treatments. Vegetables and fruits deliver various vitamins and minerals. Including a variety of these in your daily diet ensures better immune support.

Low-fat Foods

Healthy fats like nuts, seeds, and olive oil can help reduce inflammation and sustain calories. To hydrate, patients should also drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and broths. These fluids prevent dehydration and help manage treatment side effects like dry mouth and fatigue.

What to Avoid

Just as some foods nourish the body during treatment, others can undermine recovery. Refrain from eating these foods or eliminate them altogether from your diet:

Sweetened Foods and Beverages

Processed and sugary foods like candy, sodas, packaged snacks, and white bread provide little nutritional value and may worsen inflammation. These should be limited altogether.

Processed Meats

Red and processed meats, including bacon, sausages, and deli slices, have been linked to increased cancer risk and recurrence. They also contain preservatives and compounds that are difficult to digest during treatment. Similarly, deep-fried foods and those made with hydrogenated oils can irritate your digestive tract.

Raw and Undercooked Foods

Patients with weakened immune systems should also avoid raw foods such as sushi, runny eggs, and unpasteurized dairy products. These carry a higher risk of foodborne illnesses, which can be dangerous during treatment. Alcohol is another item best avoided, as it may interfere with medications, impair liver function, and increase dehydration.