People suffering from cancer need to maintain a healthy diet and be a healthy weight to ensure they can be in the best possible health whilst going through cancer treatments. Different cancer treatments can cause a loss or gain in weight and it can be stressful enough without having to think about what to eat. Below are some general guidelines to follow for you or a loved one who is going through or has finished cancer treatment.
Maintaining A Healthy Weight
This can mean different things to different people. Usually, it means avoiding weight loss by consuming adequate calories for the day. For those who are overweight, it means taking in fewer calories to become a healthy weight. Being a healthy weight can avoid other health complications when going through cancer treatment. If you are overweight, take it slow and safe in losing weight whilst having cancer treatment, around a pound a week. Do not worry too much if you are slightly under or overweight; treatments can cause this to happen and it will be easier to correct afterward.
Stay Active
Although you may find it hard to carry on your usual gym routine or play for your sporting team, there are simple things you can do to stay active. Taking a walk, every day can help you maintain muscle mass and decrease chances of body fat building up, even if you aren’t gaining weight. With children, this can mean encouraging them to play as much as normal, as children need to stay very active for mind and body. Childhood cancer research funding is constantly looking at the best treatments for children to recover quickly, as it can be hard changing their routine and diet, especially as they may not understand.
Getting the Essential Nutrients
When going through cancer treatments and afterward, it is important the body is getting the correct nutrients to fight off infections and keep the body as healthy as possible in other ways. Many cancer sufferers look to home remedies that, whilst not scientifically proven, have stood the test of time over the centuries and show multiple benefits. The benefits of chaga for cancer, for example, are numerous, helping to reduce inflammation and pain and provide essential nutrients. You may also want to be referred to a dietitian who can help guide you on the best foods and nutrients to consume if you are unsure. You may want to take multivitamins that you can get from most general good stores or your local pharmacy and there are also liquid nutritional supplements for those struggling to eat. The most important thing is to try your best but still eat the foods you enjoy. Remember, you are not on a diet. Purchase dietary vitamin supplements from a trusted source so you know they are what they say they are.
When fighting cancer, simple things can seem like a battle. Do not put too much pressure on yourself or a family member. Do what you can such as small walks or taking a multivitamin every morning to aid in your general health. Focus on staying positive and take each day at a time. Ask your family to help with these nutritional changes as it is much easier to follow if others around you are doing the same.