Chemotherapy treatments, while targeting cancer cells, can often lead to side effects such as nausea and vomiting, commonly referred to as chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting (CINV). This experience can significantly impact a patient’s daily life, making it challenging to maintain adequate nutritional intake and overall well-being. Managing these symptoms is an important part of supporting strength and recovery during cancer treatment. Dietary adjustments can play a supportive role in alleviating discomfort and helping patients sustain their nutritional needs.
Foods and Beverages for Nausea Relief
When experiencing nausea from chemotherapy, focusing on certain foods and beverages can provide relief. Bland, easy-to-digest foods are often tolerated well due to their mild flavors and low odor, making them less likely to upset a sensitive stomach. Examples include plain toast, crackers, pretzels, rice, pasta, boiled or mashed potatoes, and skinless chicken (baked or broiled).
Ginger, a traditional remedy, has anti-nausea properties that can help alleviate CINV. It can be consumed in various forms such as ginger tea, ginger candies, or by adding fresh ginger to food. Studies suggest that taking 0.5 to 1.0 grams of ginger daily, starting a few days before chemotherapy, can significantly reduce the severity of acute nausea.
Cold foods and drinks are often more palatable as they tend to have less odor than warm or hot items, which can trigger nausea. Options like popsicles, ice chips, cold fruits, yogurt, and chilled broths can be soothing and easier to consume. Maintaining hydration is also crucial, as dehydration can worsen nausea and other treatment side effects. Clear liquids such as water, diluted fruit juices, low-sugar sports drinks, and decaffeinated teas help prevent fluid loss. Sipping these liquids slowly throughout the day, rather than drinking large amounts at once, can aid in digestion and reduce stomach upset.
Practical Eating Strategies
The way food is consumed can be as impactful as the food choices themselves in managing nausea. Eating small, frequent meals throughout the day, perhaps every 2-3 hours, can prevent the stomach from becoming too full or too empty, both of which can exacerbate nausea. This approach can also support overall nutrition by providing a steady intake of calories and nutrients. Eating slowly and chewing food thoroughly allows the digestive system to process food without feeling overwhelmed.
Timing meals strategically around chemotherapy sessions can also be beneficial. Some individuals find it helpful to eat a light, easily digestible meal a few hours before treatment, while others prefer to avoid eating immediately prior to their session. Minimizing exposure to strong food odors during preparation can reduce nausea triggers. Cooking in well-ventilated areas or choosing foods that can be eaten cold or at room temperature, which typically emit fewer odors, can be helpful. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene by rinsing the mouth before and after meals can help make food more appealing and reduce unpleasant tastes.
Foods and Habits to Limit or Avoid
Certain foods and eating habits can intensify chemotherapy-induced nausea and are generally best limited or avoided. Fatty, greasy, or fried foods are harder to digest and can remain in the stomach for longer, potentially causing discomfort and worsening nausea. Spicy or highly seasoned foods can irritate the digestive tract and should also be consumed with caution. Foods with strong odors, particularly when warm or hot, are common nausea triggers and are often best avoided. Overly sweet foods can sometimes lead to stomach upset.
Beverages containing alcohol and caffeine should be limited or avoided, as they can contribute to dehydration and may irritate the stomach lining. Avoiding large meals is also important, as overeating can significantly increase feelings of nausea.
When to Seek Medical Guidance
While dietary adjustments can provide considerable support in managing chemotherapy-induced nausea, there are situations where seeking professional medical guidance is necessary. Contact your healthcare team if you experience:
- Severe nausea that persists despite dietary changes or prevents adequate food and fluid intake.
- Persistent vomiting, especially if it prevents keeping any food or liquids down.
- Signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dry mouth, dizziness, or confusion.
- Unintended weight loss or signs of malnutrition.
Dietary advice supplements, but does not replace, the medical care and recommendations provided by the oncology team.