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What Kinds of Food Should Cancer Patients Eat?
Diet is an important part of cancer treatment because it provides nutrients and energy for the body to help fight the cancer 1. Regardless of the type of cancer or the current treatment protocol, there are foods that are suitable for most, if not all, cancer patients.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are an excellent source of nutrients, vitamins and carbohydrates for a cancer patient. The exception to this is fruits with a thick skin that can be washed, such as oranges and bananas, notes the Association of Online Cancer Resources.
Protein
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It also helps to repair body tissues such as skin, bones and muscles. The American Cancer Society notes that cancer patients may need additional protein following procedures such as chemotherapy, radiation or surgery.
Dairy
Low-fat dairy products are a vital component in a cancer patient's diet. Some soft cheeses, such as cream cheese, are permissible as long as the patient hasn't been diagnosed with neutropenia. Imported cheeses and moldy cheeses, such as brie or feta, aren't acceptable choices. Mexican cheeses, such as cojita, aren't acceptable either, notes Medline Plus. The cheese should be prepackaged. Cheeses sliced in the deli are at an increased risk of contamination and should be avoided.
- Low-fat dairy products are a vital component in a cancer patient's diet.
- Cheeses sliced in the deli are at an increased risk of contamination and should be avoided.
Grains
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Grains, especially whole grains, are a good source of carbohydrates for a cancer patient. Carbohydrates are a source of energy for the body. Prepackaged bread, doughnuts, muffins, pasta and rice are good options. Cereals are good choices as long as they don't contain fruits or nuts. Bakery breads or products prepared in a store or deli aren't good options. Any potato salad or macaroni salad that is prepared at home is permissible, but store bought varieties aren't.
- Grains, especially whole grains, are a good source of carbohydrates for a cancer patient.
- Bakery breads or products prepared in a store or deli aren't good options.
Related Articles
References
- American Cancer Society: Nutrition for the Person With Cancer During Treatment: A Guide for Patients and Families
- Medline Plus: Safe Eating During Cancer Treatment
- National Cancer Institute: What You Should Know About Cancer Treatment, Eating Well, and Eating Problems
- Cancer.Net. Find a cancer doctor.
- American Society of Hematology. Find a hematologist.
- National Cancer Institute. Clinical trials information for patients and caregivers.
- National Cancer Institute. NCI-designated cancer centers. Updated June 24, 2019
- American Cancer Society. Seeking a second opinion. Revised August 7, 2019
- CancerCare. Connect education workshops.
- American Cancer Society. Cancer treatment decision tools and resources.
- Holt-lunstad J, Smith TB, Layton JB. Social relationships and mortality risk: a meta-analytic review. PLoS Med. 2010;7(7):e1000316. doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316
- National Cancer Institute. Cancer statistics. Updated April 27, 2018
- Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T., and J. Layton. Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta-Analytic Review. PLoS Medicine. 2010. 7(7):e1000316.
- National Cancer Institute. Cancer Statistics. Updated 03/14/16.
Writer Bio
Casey Holley is a medical writer who began working in the health and fitness industries in 1995, while still in high school. She has worked as a nutrition consultant and has written numerous health and wellness articles for various online publications. She has also served in the Navy and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in health administration from the University of Phoenix.