Nutrition After a Cancer Diagnosis

By Cindy Fortuna, Registered Holistic Nutritionist

If you’re reading this, you recognize the importance of diet and nutrition after a cancer diagnosis. 

As a Registered Holistic Nutritionist and someone who was treated for primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL), an uncommon, aggressive and deadly type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma, I understand the critical role nutrition plays in managing health during and after cancer treatments. My cancer treatment involved five rounds of chemotherapy, another high-dose chemotherapy protocol prior to a full stem cell transplant, and radiation to my eyes five times per week for four weeks. 

I lived for a period of time believing that I had no control over my illness. Now I know that I can have a positive impact through nutrition and lifestyle choices, as well as mindset. 

My suggestions below aim to improve gut health, the immune system, energy levels, and rate of recovery. Nutrition can play a role in helping you recover from treatments, continue to thrive, and ultimately take control of your health.

Managing symptoms during treatment is a challenge. Here are some suggestions to help you get through this:

1. For nausea, opt for bland, easy-to-digest foods such as bananas, apple sauce, crackers, and rice.

2. For loss of appetite, focus on small, frequent meals that are nutrient dense such as smoothies, nut butters, and protein shakes.

3. For mouth sores, choose soft, cool foods such as yogurt, smoothies, and mashed potatoes.

4. Prioritize nutrient-dense foods.

5. Choose whole grains for sustained energy and fiber.

6. Lean proteins can support muscle and tissue repair.

7. Healthy fats provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

8. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, and clear broths to avoid dehydration, which can worsen fatigue and other symptoms.

9. Limit processed foods, refined carbohydrates, sugar, and alcohol.

10. While it’s best to get nutrients from whole foods, some may benefit from supplements due to dietary restrictions or increased nutritional needs. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements to avoid interactions with treatments and medications.

In addition to these suggestions, a chart is included below to summarize the nutritional categories of food that are the most beneficial during and particularly ongoing after treatments.

I encourage you to use this to implement impactful changes in what you put into your body.

Nutritional Categories and Their Benefits

Cruciferous Vegetables	contain indoles, which increase production of antioxidant enzymes increase liver’s ability to produce enzymes that neutralize toxins support liver’s detoxification processes
Antioxidants	support and rebalance the immune system counteract free radicals, stress, and inflammation
Essential Fatty Acids	ensure normal biochemical functioning of cells increase the removal of toxins diminish inflammation
Probiotics	restore balance of intestinal flora, and maintain integrity of intestinal lining reduce harmful bacteria and pathogens in the GI tract stimulate the immune system, reducing infection, allergies, and inflammation enhance mineral absorption reduce anxiety and stress response and improve mood
Lentils & Legumes	contain protease inhibitors, which inhibit enzymes that promote cancer growth contain saponins, which prevent cancer cells from multiplying
Raw Foods	include whole foods that are high in nutrients rich sources of digestive enzymes
High Fiber Foods	support immune system help maintain healthy weight, which is vital to reducing cancer risk protect intestinal lining and make bowel movements more frequent
Alkalized Foods	if body fluids become acidic due to mineral deficiencies, this may lead to disease a healthy alkaline level is pH 7.35-7.45

Note: This article offers general information and does not replace professional medical advice. Make sure to discuss your options with your healthcare provider.

Cindy Fortuna

Registered Holistic Nutritionist

CFor Wellness

Read More:

Treatment Tips & Questions to Ask Your Medical Oncology Team

Understanding and Managing GI Issues Caused by Breast Cancer Treatment

The Impact of Diet and Nutrition on Breast Cancer Prevention and Recovery

Packing a Care Bag for Cancer Treatment

After Your Breast Cancer Diagnosis: Planning Your Next Steps

On the Podcast: Breast Cancer Conversations

Understanding Nurse Navigation: Support and Resources for Cancer Patients

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