“You have cancer” are three words that no one ever wants to hear, but if you or someone you know has been diagnosed with cancer, you may be surprised to learn that nutrition plays an important role in treatment. Yep, eating the proper foods before, during and after treatment can help you feel better, maintain your strength, heal and recover faster, and better-tolerate some of the side effects that come along with treatment.
When you have multiple myeloma (MM), the side effects of treatment can include nausea, constipation, diarrhea, pain, and fatigue. All these symptoms can affect your appetite and cause you to lose weight. The good news is that there are several foods you can incorporate into your diet to improve your symptoms. Keep reading for a few pointers!
- Foods high in fiber, such as apples, bananas, oranges, broccoli, brown rice, and almonds can help relieve constipation.
- Foods high in protein, including meat, fish, eggs, nuts, beans, quinoa, and Greek yogurt can help boost your red blood cell count, making you feel less tired if you suffer from anemia. Iron and folic acid supplements can also boost your red blood cell count.
- Feeling nauseous? Your doctor may suggest that you eat a low-fat diet consisting of cold foods. Ginger, peppermint and sea bands also help to relieve nausea.
- If diarrhea is your issue, bland foods, such as boiled potatoes, toast, crackers, bananas, oatmeal, and applesauce can help.
Of course, this article is meant to serve as a guide, not as a substitute for medical advice. Therefore, if you have any questions or concerns, be sure to see a doctor, nurse or dietician to create a diet plan that works best for you.
Reviewed by: Dr. Melvin Gaskins
