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How should I eat during treatment?

Eating well during treatment will help your body develop strong, new and healthy cells.

However, you may find it difficult to eat well during treatment. Some foods may not taste so good to you anymore and you may lose your appetite. Your mouth may hurt. You may feel sick to your stomach. You also may be upset, worried or afraid, and just don't feel like eating.

If you have mouth sores or digestive problems during treatment, your doctor may prescribe a special diet.

It is important that you try your best to eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of protein, complex carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and fiber. A nutritionist or dietician at your treatment center can help you plan your diet. Here are some helpful tips:

• Eat when you are hungry. Don't feel like you have to wait for mealtime.
• Eat plenty of high calorie and high protein foods. You may want to add "instant breakfasts" to milk, milk shakes or yogurt to increase your calories and protein.
• Avoid "empty-calorie" or junk foods, such as soft drinks, chips and candy that may be satisfying but do not provide good nutrition.
• On days when you have a good appetite, eat extra.
• Eat meals that include your favorite foods. However, you may want to avoid your favorite foods if you feel sick since you may later associate their smell and taste with chemotherapy. So watch what you eat during treatment. This negative association could ruin your favorite food!
• Eat with friends and family and in a setting that you enjoy.
• Ask your doctor when you should take your medicine so that it does not affect your appetite.

For more information visit 2beME, a Web site for teens who have cancer. The "Health Esteem" section provides tips for eating well, exercising, reducing stress and other health concerns.