It is
challenging to find specific links between a food or nutrient and cancer
because:
ü Foods contain many substances that may either increase or lower
cancer risk.
ü Most people eat and drink a variety of foods. This creates
interactions that are hard to study
ü The effects of a food or nutrient can vary depending on how much of
it you eat
ü
Some research shows that how a
food is prepared may influence its risk or benefits.
If your treatment has started and it has caused side effects like vomiting
sensation, vomitings,taste changes and ulcers in mouth, you might already have
made a list of what food items to eat and what not! If you haven't made then I
am sure ,over enthusiastic family member might have already made one list for
you.
There is only one rule to follow regarding food items during cancer
treatment, Do not eat uncooked/raw/street foods. The reason being
exposure to food borne illnesses. Cancer patients are immuno-compromised and
these illnesses will further drain their energy.
Properly cooked foods will destroy the bacteria,so eat freshly prepared
food. Do not eat stored food.
Indians have habit of eating masala foods. During cancer treatment try to
avoid spicy/masala foods. That does not mean you should stop eating,eat less
spicy/masala food items.
People with cancer might have lost the will to eat, they often say they are
not hungry. If we impose restrictions on food items they may stop eating
altogether. So be cautious when you cut down food items.
Encourage them to eat anything of their choice. Make a habit of dividing
the meals into small quantities. Give something to eat repeatedly. Encourage
more fluid intake. Be patient and support them.
Diet charts given by any dietician are to be used as a guide on what to be
taken,how much to be taken. That does not mean that the items given in diet
chart are to be strictly followed. It's just for an idea. Dieticians never
restrict any food items. Remember that always.
Talk
with us or another member of your health care team about how long you should
take food precautions and when you can return to eating certain foods again