PROPER NUTRITION DURING BREAST CANCER TREATMENT

How Important is Nutrition During Breast Cancer Treatment?

Proper Nutrition is very important when undergoing treatment for breast cancer. Getting the right kinds of food can help you feel better and keep your strength up when undergoing cancer treatment. It is best to get a good understanding of nutrition and the food your body needs before you start your cancer treatment. It is important to understand that the cancer itself, as well as the treatment, can affect your appetite. You will need to start eating as well as you can before your treatment starts, as well as during your treatment to help you feel your best, and to help you recover from your illness. Good nutrition needs to start with an understanding of what food you need to keep you healthy.

Protein

Protein is needed for growth, tissue repair, and keeping your immune system healthy enough to fight off disease. With cancer, you will need more protein to help your body recover from the cancer, as well as the chemotherapy or radiation provided as treatment. This protein will help repair the diseased and damaged tissue. Protein can be found in lean sources of meat, fish, poultry, dairy products, nuts, beans, peas, and soy.

Fats

Despite all of the information available in the media, fats are also an important part of the diet. Fats are a source of energy for your body, but, you must consider carefully the kinds of fats you should eat. The best sources of fats are called monounsaturated or polyunsaturated. These good fats are found in vegetables, fish, olive oil, peanut oil, and canola oil. You should restrict your intake of saturated fats and trans fatty acids. Saturated fats are found in meat, coconut oil, butter, and poultry. Trans fatty acids are found in snack foods or fast food or anything made with partially hydrogenated oil or shortening.

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates provide the body with fuel for physical activity and proper organ function. Carbohydrates come from many sources. The best sources of carbohydrates are fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. These foods also provide needed vitamins and fiber. Sweets also provide carbohydrates, however, they provide few nutrients.

Nutrition During Breast Cancer Treatment

Your cancer treatment might have an effect on your ability to eat and keep a healthy weight. However, you must continue to eat healthy food to keep your strength up and provide your body the nutrients it needs to repair itself from the cancer. Consider making foods that are high in calories if you do not feel like eating. If you are having a problem with vomiting, smaller more frequent meals may be what you need. Always speak with your doctor if you are having any problems.