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If you’re managing mesothelioma, you know the road to feeling your best can be challenging. While treatment and medical care are essential, focusing on your diet can make a big difference in supporting your body and energy levels.
Here are seven nutrition tips to help you feel more empowered and comfortable during your journey with mesothelioma.
- Prioritize Protein
Protein is a key nutrient that helps repair cells, maintain muscle mass, and keep your immune system strong. During treatment, your body often needs extra protein to heal from side effects and stay strong. Try incorporating lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, eggs, and tofu into your daily meals.
If you’re struggling with a lack of appetite or nausea, adding protein shakes or high-protein snacks like Greek yogurt or cottage cheese can give you the boost you need without overwhelming your system.
- Hydrate
Staying hydrated is always important, but especially if you’re undergoing treatment that can cause dehydration. Water helps with digestion, controls body temperature, and aids in the transportation of nutrients to cells.
Aim to drink eight glasses of water a day – or more if you’re experiencing side effects like vomiting or diarrhea. If plain water isn’t appealing, consider flavored water, herbal teas, or broths as alternatives. Electrolyte-replenishing drinks can also be helpful if you’re losing fluids quickly, though you should consult with your doctor to ensure you’re choosing the best options.
- Focus on Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Inflammation is a common issue for mesothelioma patients, often worsened by certain treatments. Including anti-inflammatory foods in your diet can help reduce inflammation and ease some discomfort. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, walnuts, and flaxseed, are particularly helpful. Additionally, spices like turmeric and ginger have anti-inflammatory properties that may provide some relief. Try incorporating these foods throughout the week as a natural way to reduce inflammation.
- Choose Calorie-Dense Foods
For many mesothelioma patients, maintaining a healthy weight can be a struggle due to a reduced appetite or side effects from treatments. One way to help prevent weight loss is by eating calorie-dense foods that pack in nutrients without requiring you to eat large portions.
Avocados, nuts, seeds, nut butters, and olive oil are great options for adding extra calories without taking up too much space on your plate. Smoothies made with protein powder, fruit, and nut butter are another good option, as they’re easy to drink if you’re feeling fatigued or experiencing a lack of appetite.
- Try More Fiber-Rich Foods
Keeping your digestive system healthy is essential, especially if you’re on medications that can disrupt normal bowel function. Fiber-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, and lentils can help support your digestive system and prevent constipation. However, if you’re experiencing digestive side effects, such as bloating or diarrhea, you might want to choose gentler sources of fiber, like oatmeal, bananas, and applesauce, which are easier on the stomach. Remember to increase your fiber intake gradually and drink plenty of water to avoid further digestive discomfort.
- Eat Small, Frequent Meals
During treatment, you may find it difficult to eat large meals. If your appetite is low, small, frequent meals can help you get enough calories and nutrients without overwhelming your body. Aim for three main meals and two to three snacks throughout the day to maintain a steady energy level.
Instead of focusing on traditional meal times, eat whenever you feel hungry or have the energy to eat, even if that means having a light meal every two to three hours. This can help prevent the fatigue that often comes from low energy intake and ensure your body is getting the support it needs.
- Consult a Dietitian
Dietitians who specialize in cancer nutrition are invaluable resources, as they can provide tailored advice based on your unique needs, treatment plan, and preferences. They’ll work with you to address any dietary restrictions, food sensitivities, or side effects you’re experiencing. In some cases, a dietitian may suggest dietary supplements to ensure you’re meeting all your nutritional needs. Regular consultations with a dietitian can help you stay on track with your diet goals, optimize your strength, and maintain a healthy weight.
Putting it All Together
If you’re currently fighting mesothelioma, it’s important that you do everything within your power to give your body the proper fuel it needs to function well. By following the diet and nutrition tips highlighted above, you can set yourself up for success.
