Radiation therapy utilizes high-energy radiation, commonly X-rays, to target and destroy cancer cells or inhibit their growth. This treatment can be delivered externally, with radiation beams directed from outside the body, or internally, where radioactive material is placed inside or near the tumor. While effective in treating various cancers, radiation therapy can impact healthy cells near the treatment area, leading to side effects. Nutrition plays a substantial role throughout the cancer journey, including before, during, and after radiation therapy, influencing both tolerance to treatment and recovery.
General Pre-Treatment Eating Guidelines
Proper nutrition before radiation therapy can help manage potential side effects. Light, easily digestible meals are advisable before treatment. Heavy, greasy, or highly acidic foods should be avoided, as these can contribute to nausea or gastrointestinal discomfort, particularly if the treatment area involves the abdomen. Bland foods like toast, crackers, or applesauce are recommended for ease of digestion.
Some individuals find it beneficial to avoid eating two to three hours before a session, while others may prefer to eat a small, easily digestible meal. Staying well-hydrated by sipping clear fluids throughout the day, rather than large amounts at once, is also important.
Dietary Considerations Based on Treatment Area
Dietary recommendations during radiation therapy depend on the body part being treated, as side effects vary significantly. For individuals receiving radiation to the head and neck, challenges such as dry mouth, mouth sores (oral mucositis), painful chewing and swallowing, or changes in taste are common. Soft, moist, and bland foods are recommended to minimize irritation. Avoiding highly acidic foods like citrus fruits, tomatoes, spicy dishes, or foods with rough textures can help prevent further discomfort. Using plastic utensils may also alleviate a metallic taste that some patients experience.
When radiation targets the abdominal or pelvic regions, managing gastrointestinal side effects like nausea, diarrhea, or increased gas becomes a primary focus. Eating bland, low-fat, and low-fiber foods may help reduce digestive upset. Certain foods known to increase gas, such as beans, broccoli, cabbage, and some artificial sweeteners, might need to be limited to reduce discomfort and ensure treatment accuracy. For pelvic radiation, specific preparation involving fluid intake and consistent bladder and bowel contents is crucial for precise targeting and minimizing long-term side effects. Patients may be asked to fast for a couple of hours before treatment to ensure the stomach is at a consistent size, which aids in accurate radiation delivery.
Nutrition for Managing Treatment Side Effects
Dietary adjustments throughout radiation therapy can help mitigate common side effects impacting eating and well-being. Fatigue is a common side effect; adequate caloric and protein intake is important to sustain energy. Eating nutrient-dense foods, including lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, provides the necessary fuel for the body. Small, frequent meals and snacks can be more manageable than large meals, especially when appetite is low or nausea is present.
Nausea can be eased by consuming bland foods, avoiding strong-smelling or very sweet items, and sipping clear liquids between meals. For painful mouth sores, soft foods like yogurts, puddings, and mashed potatoes are more tolerable; a straw can sometimes help bypass sore areas. Changes in taste, such as a metallic or bitter sensation, are also common; eating foods at room temperature, experimenting with different seasonings, or using sugar-free candies may help.
Consulting Your Healthcare Team
Diet and radiation therapy information is general; individual needs vary based on cancer, treatment plan, and personal health history. Engaging with your healthcare team, including your oncologist, radiation oncologist, and an oncology dietitian, is recommended. A dietitian can provide personalized guidance, assess nutritional status, and help develop a tailored eating plan to manage side effects and maintain strength throughout treatment. Open communication about any dietary concerns, challenges, or side effects experienced ensures that you receive the most appropriate and effective support.