Proper nutrition is essential to provide fuel and to support bodily functions. When undergoing chemotherapy, eating right is even more important. Cancer treatments can be extremely hard on the body, so you must ensure you're consuming wholesome, nutritional foods regularly. Here are a few food groups your caregiver can incorporate into your diet to support optimum wellness. 

What to Eat While Receiving Cancer Treatment

1. High Protein Foods

Protein is an essential nutrient. It can help repair your body when experiencing the effects of cancer. Protein is available in numerous foods, including beef, poultry, and fish, as well as beans, nuts, cheese, eggs, and yogurt. 

Try to incorporate protein in every meal. For example, spread a bit of nut butter on toast or crackers for a healthy snack. 

2. Vegetables

While most vegetables are beneficial to overall health, a certain type of vegetable has been shown to benefit people with cancer. According to the National Cancer Institute, cruciferous vegetables include essential nutrients, such as folate, vitamins C, E, and K, beta-carotene, and assorted minerals. 

Cruciferous vegetables include kale, cauliflower, collard greens, cabbage, and broccoli. They offer the biggest benefit when combined with other veggies, such as tomatoes, peppers, and carrots. 

3. Fruits

Chemotherapy is associated with side effects like nausea, cognitive issues, and fatigue. Nutritious foods, including fruit, can offset some of these side effects. Blueberries are a natural cancer fighter thanks to their high antioxidant content. They can also help sharpen memory and mental focus, which can be affected by cancer treatment. 

Bananas are beneficial to people experiencing stomach upset during treatment. Bananas contain pectin, which is a type of fiber beneficial during bouts of diarrhea. Bananas also provide electrolytes, which prevent dehydration.

You need all the care and assistance you can get when going through chemotherapy. The team of caregivers at Central Illinois Care Services in Glen Carbon, IL, can also provide a friendly and compassionate home health aide for further assistance. They help with bathing and grooming, transportation, light housekeeping, and preparation of healthy and wholesome meals. These skilled caregivers also provide much-needed companion care to support you emotionally. Visit their website to learn more about their services and call (618) 391-7138 to schedule a consultation.