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Good nutrition provides a strong foundation

Your healthcare team will work with you to address any nutrition-related concerns and tailor nutritional support to your individual needs. Follow the advice of your doctor, dietitian and other healthcare professionals. 

Tips for eating well during cancer treatment

  • Include nourishing drinks as well as water and tea, particularly if you are experiencing nausea or vomiting.
  • Choose foods you enjoy and eat when your appetite allows.
  • Include a variety of foods to help prevent taste fatigue.
  • Allow yourself plenty of time to eat and make yourself comfortable.
  • Consider eating with family or friends, as this may help encourage your appetite.
  • Speak with your healthcare team if eating or drinking becomes difficult. 

Potential benefits of good nutrition during cancer treatment

Meeting your nutritional needs may help you to:

  • Maintain your strength and energy levels
  • Support normal immune function
  • Preserve muscle mass and nutrient stores
  • Better tolerate the side effects of treatment
  • Support your overall wellbeing and quality of life

Changes in taste are common during and after cancer treatment and may occur as a side effect of chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

Some people experience a metallic taste. Using plastic cutlery instead of metal cutlery may help reduce this sensation.

It is common to prefer only a small range of foods during treatment. Choose foods you enjoy and try other foods again when you feel ready.

If taste changes are limiting your food intake, speak with your healthcare team. Oral nutritional supplements may be recommended when additional nutritional support is needed

Pain or difficulty swallowing or chewing can make it harder to meet your nutritional needs.

You may find it easier to:

  • Choose soft, moist foods
  • Add sauces or gravies to make food easier to swallow
  • Cut food into small pieces or choose puréed foods when appropriate
  • Take small mouthfuls and allow plenty of time to eat
  • Choose nourishing drinks if solid food is difficult to manage

Speak with your doctor, dietitian or speech pathologist if you experience pain, coughing, choking or difficulty swallowing. Your healthcare team can assess the cause and recommend suitable foods, drinks and nutritional support.

 

Eat when you feel at your best. Small, frequent meals and snacks may be easier to manage than larger meals.

On days when you feel better, try to make the most of your appetite and food intake. Keep a selection of nourishing foods and drinks available that are quick and easy to prepare.

If tiredness or reduced appetite is making it difficult to eat enough, speak with your healthcare team.

Cancer treatment may affect digestion and cause symptoms such as constipation or diarrhoea.

If you experience constipation, drinking enough fluid may help. Suitable options may include water, milk, nourishing drinks or other fluids recommended by your healthcare team. Certain foods may also help, depending on your individual needs.

If you experience diarrhoea, maintaining your fluid intake is important. Your healthcare team can advise you about suitable foods and fluids and whether any temporary dietary changes are needed.

Speak with your healthcare professional before making significant dietary changes, particularly if symptoms are persistent or severe.