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Nutrition During Mesothelioma Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a common mesothelioma treatment in which patients are given strong drugs designed to kill cancerous cells. The treatment, which is generally used when the cancer has spread, can be extremely physically taxing. Although the medication is intended to affect only the tumor, it can also damage healthy cells. In its weakened state, the body can be particularly susceptible to developing side effects from this aggressive treatment.

Focusing on adequate nutrition during chemotherapy can help ease discomfort and supply the body with essential vitamins and minerals that are necessary for recovery. Dietitians recommend adopting a high-protein, increased-calorie diet during and after treatment.

Improve Your Health
Read the complimentary book, What to Eat if You Have Cancer, for more information on your dietary needs during mesothelioma chemotherapy. To learn more about mesothelioma, request a free informational packet by using the form on the right.
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Protein

Protein is a macronutrient that the body uses for energy. Because it can help rebuild and repair body tissues, protein is especially important in a chemotherapy patient’s diet. Lean meats, nuts, beans and dairy products are high-quality protein sources that are easily incorporated into your diet. Simple protein-rich snacks include an apple with peanut butter, almonds, yogurt or protein shakes.

Calories

Because chemotherapy often makes patients feel weak or tired, consuming additional calories can help your body create more energy. This does not mean that you should fill up on “empty” calories from candy and junk food. Instead, choose calorically-dense snacks that also deliver key nutrients, such as cheese, granola, milkshakes or dried fruits. A balanced diet full of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean proteins typically increases overall health and energy levels.

Managing Side Effects

Since chemotherapy often damages cells in the digestive tract, many of its side effects can complicate eating. Despite the difficulties, mesothelioma patients should make a concentrated effort to consume adequate amounts of food for their bodies to properly respond to and recover from the chemotherapy. Below is a chart of dietary changes that may alleviate chemotherapy side effects.

Chemotherapy Side Effect Dietary Recommendations
Dry Mouth Consume foods with high water content such as fruits, popsicles, gelatin and milkshakes. Avoid dry, salty foods such as crackers and pretzels.
Dehydration Consume foods with high water content; avoid alcohol and caffeine. Increase fluid intake to 8-12 glasses per day.
Diarrhea Avoid greasy, fatty or fried foods, raw vegetables, strong spices, alcohol and caffeine.
Constipation Consume foods with high amounts of soluble fiber such as bananas, potatoes and oatmeal. The probiotics found in yogurt may also be beneficial when dealing with constipation.
Nausea Avoid strong-smelling foods that may induce nausea. Bland foods such as rice and toast can help absorb stomach acid.
Vomiting Avoid fried or highly sugary foods, which can be hard to digest, as well as spicy foods which can irritate the stomach.
Fatigue Increase overall caloric intake to supply the body with more energy. On days you have extra energy, prepare and freeze simple meals that are easy to heat and eat on days when you are tired.
Loss of Appetite Consider nutritional drinks such as Ensure or Boost. Eat small meals every two to three hours and enjoy the foods that appeal to you. Keep high-calorie snacks such as nuts and cheese on hand.

More Dietary Tips During Chemotherapy

The tannins and antioxidants contained in green tea may help slow or prevent the metastasis of cancer cells. Additionally, the oils found in fish contain EPA and DHA, two substances that make it harder for cancer cells to stick to blood vessels, reducing their ability to metastasize.

Pay attention to the following foods, which can help cancer patients:

  • Fish oil: contains EPA and DHA which decrease cancer cells’ ability to spread
  • Fiber: keeps blood sugar level even and “starves” cancer cells
  • Coenzyme Q10: may help protect the heart during chemotherapy
  • Green tea: acts as a strong antioxidant

If you still have trouble meeting your nutritional needs, speak with your doctor about taking herbal supplements. Many herbal supplements are sold to help prevent or address health issues including cancer and several of its side effects. While they are typically natural and safe for consumption, there are certain supplements that can negatively interact with traditional therapies used to treat mesothelioma. Astragalus and flaxseed are two such edible supplements that are believed to have a positive impact on cancer, yet may potentially interfere with the effectiveness of the drugs used in chemotherapy.

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