Cancer affects millions of lives globally. In fact, the American Cancer Society estimated in 2022 that there were more than 20 million new cancer cases and almost 10 million cancer-related deaths each year¹. While October marked Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it is also a reminder of the broader impact of cancer on individuals and families, and the importance of practical, compassionate care during treatment.
Nutrition plays a vital role during this time, but chemotherapy and radiation often make eating challenging. According to the American Cancer Society, between 40% and 80% of people with cancer experience malnutrition during their illness². This can significantly impact energy levels, strength, and overall well-being, but flexible eating strategies can help to support the body through treatment and recovery.²³⁴
“Eating well during this period isn’t about rigid rules. It’s about finding what works each day,” says Sonal Ratan, Dietitian at FUTURELIFE®. “So, when the idea of food feels overwhelming, small wins matter. A nutrient-rich smoothie, for example, can be sipped slowly, offering both hydration and nourishment in a form that’s often easier to manage,” she explains.
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Many people undergoing treatment experience side effects that affect their ability to eat. Ratan shares some common ones with practical tips to help.
1. Poor appetite: Eat when your appetite is strongest, often earlier in the day, and aim to include a source of protein at each meal to help prevent muscle loss and maintain energy³. This can include easy snacks such as yoghurt, soup, or a FUTURELIFE® High Protein Bar. Avoid drinking large amounts with meals to keep space for food.
2. Nausea: Opt for cold or room-temperature foods that are easily digestible (yoghurt, clear liquids, smoothies), dry toast or crackers. Avoid strong smells, very sweet or greasy foods, and eat slowly. If vomiting, wait until it settles down before taking sips of a clear liquid.
3. Mouth or throat sores/swallowing difficulty: Soft, smooth foods such as scrambled eggs, pureed fruit, soups and custard or FUTURELIFE® HIGH PROTEIN Smart food™ mixed with low-fat or plant milk as a milkshake or soft cereal – are easier to eat and swallow. Suck on ice chips to ease pain and avoid spicy or acidic foods.
4. Diarrhoea: Replace fluids and electrolytes. Choose foods with soluble fibre, like slightly browned grated apple or banana. Avoid fatty, very sugary, or high-fibre foods that worsen symptoms.
5. Constipation: Stay hydrated, drink warm fluids like tea or coffee if tolerated, and include high fibre foods if permitted. Light activity, with your doctor’s approval, can also help.
6. Taste and smell changes: These are common during treatment⁴. Try tart or sweet flavours to offset bitterness and serve meals at a cool temperature to reduce aroma.
A colourful plate offering a range of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, as tolerated, can also be enjoyable and help support overall nutrition needs. “If you find you are losing weight rapidly or struggling to keep food down, get in touch with a dietitian. They can help identify the cause and provide the right care.”
Cancer treatment can also weaken the immune system, making food safety essential. “Wash your hands and all produce thoroughly, ensure foods are cooked properly, store leftovers in the fridge within two hours, and avoid raw or undercooked meat, fish, or eggs to lower infection risk⁵,” Ratan advises.
Eating during your cancer journey may feel unpredictable, but small, consistent efforts add up. Whether it’s a warm bowl of soup, a chilled smoothie, or a convenient protein bar on a low-energy day – each can be a source of comfort and sustenance.
“There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition during treatment,” Ratan concludes, “but listening to your body and focusing on what tastes good can make each day a little easier.”
If you would like more information on FUTURELIFE® products, please visit www.futurelife.co.za.
