ARTICLES / General /
The Fine Line of Food /
Other ArticlesBy Jennifer Bradley, Staff Writer
An etiquette every person is taught is to
never ask a woman her weight. For a woman
diagnosed with breast cancer, that is something
she is asked often, and a fact she is expected
to track religiously. It’s a fine line to
walk—the need to maintain a healthy weight while
combatting the lack of appetite many cancer
patients experience.
THE CHALLENGE
For a women living with breast cancer, food
typically becomes a necessary evil. Poor appetite,
as well as side effects of treatment (nausea,
vomiting or mouth sores), offer little incentive to
eat healthy, filling meals. Food also tastes
different, and it’s difficult to eat when a person
is feeling worn out.
If a person is currently in breast cancer
treatment, or remission, what the person eats
greatly affects the efficiency of her immune system,
mood and energy.
Each day may be different than the previous or next.
A person’s health and weight before diagnosis
affects the nutritional approach during treatment;
so does the type, amount and length of the cancer
treatment. Professionals recommend a patient pay
attention to their body’s needs and the cues it
sends. Flexibility is key, as is planning ahead.
If side effects of treatment are becoming a
problem, it’s important to talk to the primary
physician or recommended dietician. Dehydration,
bowel changes and a weakened immune system can all
lead to serious consequences if not addressed
appropriately.
THE FOOD
A diet needs to be individualized to your loved
one’s needs. Appetite may be better in the morning
hours for someone, while another person finds small
meals throughout the day easier.
Making every bite count is a tip you should take
to heart. Calorie-rich foods are a much better use
of a good appetite day than eating snack foods that
aren’t filling. Protein is especially important, as
it helps build immunity and strength for the
challenge of cancer treatment. Small, healthy snacks
are not bad, however, between meals. String cheese,
raw veggies, and nuts are great options.
Dieticians do recommend avoiding certain foods
during intense breast cancer treatment. These
include: raw or undercooked food, raw eggs, raw
milk, soft cheeses, raw honey, sun tea and
unpasteurized beer.
