It is important to try to maintain weight and nutrition despite nausea and vomiting.  Nausea and vomiting may be caused by a lot of components with cancer. Radiation and chemotherapy treatments often cause nausea and vomiting, but medications, stress, intense pain, and illness may also result in nausea and vomiting. With vomiting, dehydration may occur, which means the body needs replenishment of fluids and salt. Sip fruit juices, sports drinks, or Ginger Ale to get some … [Read more...]

Bowel obstruction may occur from cancer location or scar tissue from previous surgeries. Keep an eye out for cramping, intense abdominal pain, swelling, nausea, and vomiting. If these occur and are persistent, talk to your doctor. Try a low-residue diet. This means that you avoid high-fiber foods like whole grains, cruciferous vegetables (think Brussels sprouts, broccoli, etc.), nuts, and foods with seeds and whole wheat. Remove the skin from fruits and vegetables before … [Read more...]

Mouth sores may develop from chemotherapy. With head and neck cancer treatment, the mouth and throat can often become irritated, raw, and painful.  Soothing your mouth and throat is best so that you may continue to eat and get the nutrition you need to heal. Eating soft, bland foods that are cold or room temperature can be soothing. To continue to get nutrients, you can blend foods into smoothies, soups, shakes, or you can mash potatoes. You can also try puddings, ice cream, or … [Read more...]

Dry mouth can happen from chemotherapy, radiation, medications, or all of the above. Saliva glands can be affected by these and it can result in poor production of saliva. Saliva production may stop or it may become thick, sticky, or stringy. This can make swallowing very difficult! Start with increasing your fluids to 8-10 cups per day. Be sure to take a water bottle with you when you leave the house. If you have thick saliva, very sour or sweet foods can stimulate saliva. … [Read more...]

When it comes to nutrition related side effects from cancer and the treatments that many have to take, loss of appetite is one of the most common. As an oncology dietitian of over 10 years, this is one of the questions that I get from people who are dealing with treatments: "What do I do if I don't feel like eating?" Before we get into the practical tips, I think it's important to remember why you want to be well nourished! Adequate Nutrition Intake Supports Muscle Growth … [Read more...]