Weight loss is a common challenge for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. Adequate nutrition is important for preserving strength, supporting recovery, and improving well-being. Healthy weight gain helps the body better withstand treatments and facilitates healing.
Why Weight Loss Occurs
Weight loss in cancer patients results from factors related to the disease and its treatments. Cancer can lead to cachexia, a metabolic syndrome characterized by involuntary muscle mass loss. Cachexia differs from typical starvation, involving systemic inflammation and metabolic changes that increase energy expenditure and alter nutrient processing. This accelerates muscle protein breakdown, leading to a net loss of muscle mass.
Increased energy demands from cancer growth contribute to weight loss. Cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery often induce side effects impacting a patient’s ability to eat. Nausea, vomiting, and changes in taste and smell are common, reducing appetite. Early satiety and difficulty swallowing can also limit nutrient intake.
Nutritional Strategies for Healthy Weight Gain
To promote healthy weight gain, focus on calorie-dense and nutrient-rich foods. Prioritize foods offering substantial calories and protein in smaller, easier-to-consume portions. Incorporate full-fat dairy products like whole milk, cheese, and Greek yogurt to boost calorie and protein intake. Adding healthy fats, such as avocados, nuts, nut butters, and olive oil, increases caloric density without large volumes.
Increasing protein intake is important for preserving muscle mass and supporting tissue repair. Good sources include meats, poultry, fish, eggs, and legumes. Mix powdered milk into soups or cereals, or add nut butters to toast or fruit. Frequent, small meals and snacks throughout the day, aiming for five to six smaller meals every two to three hours, can maximize intake when appetite is low.
Liquid supplements or smoothies offer a convenient way to consume calories and nutrients when solid foods are challenging. Customize them with protein powder, full-fat milk, yogurt, fruits, and nut butters for high-calorie, high-protein options. Experimenting with different flavors, textures, and temperatures can also encourage eating.
Overcoming Common Eating Obstacles
Managing common side effects from cancer treatment improves food intake. Nausea can be alleviated by eating small, bland meals, avoiding strong-smelling or greasy foods, and sipping ginger tea or clear beverages. Eating foods at room temperature or colder reduces their odor. Taking anti-nausea medication as prescribed, often 30 to 60 minutes before meals, may also help.
Changes in taste and smell are challenges that make food unappealing. Experiment with different seasonings, marinades, and sauces to enhance flavor. If foods taste metallic, use plastic cutlery or try tart foods like citrus. For a bland or absent taste, incorporate sour or tart foods to stimulate taste buds.
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can make chewing and swallowing difficult. Sucking on sugar-free candies or chewing gum stimulates saliva production. Moisten foods with gravies, sauces, or broths, and choose soft or pureed textures for easier eating. Sipping water frequently also keeps the mouth moist. Fatigue can impact eating; plan meals for times of higher energy and keep ready-to-eat snacks accessible.
Seeking Expert Help
Seeking professional guidance is important given complexities of nutrition during cancer treatment. Registered dietitians specializing in oncology nutrition assess individual needs and develop personalized nutrition plans. They provide tailored advice on managing side effects, recommending foods, and suggesting supplements when necessary. Oncology dietitians support patients through treatment, helping to maintain weight, strength, and overall quality of life.
Communicate any persistent weight loss, severe side effects, or dietary questions with your doctor or healthcare team. These professionals can work collaboratively with a dietitian to ensure nutritional strategies align with the overall treatment plan. Always manage your diet with medical professional advice and supervision.