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What are some of the nutritional problems imposed by Cancer Treatments?

What are some of the nutritional problems imposed by cancer treatments? What dietary modifications are necessary?

Diet is an important part of Cancer Treatment. Cancer patients have special nutritionneeds and issues related to eating. Eating the right kinds of foods before, duringand after treatment can help the patient feel better and stay stronger.
Cancer and its impact on nutrition
Cancerous tumors may produce chemicals that can affect the absorption of certainnutrients in the body. The body’s use of protein, carbohydrates and fat may be affected,especially by tumors of the stomach or intestines.

A patient may appear to be eating enough, but the body may not be able to absorball the nutrients from the food.
Goals of nutrition therapy in cancer
The goals of nutrition therapy for patients with cancer who are in active treatmentand recovery are designed to restore nutrient shortages, maintain nutritional healthand prevent complications. The goals of nutrition therapy are:

* Prevent or correct malnutrition.
* Prevent wasting of muscle, bone, blood, organs and otherlean body mass.
* Help the patient tolerate treatment.
* Reduce nutrition-related side-effects and complications.
* Maintain strength and energy.
* Protect ability to fight infection.
* Help recoveryand healing.
* Maintain or improve quality of life.

To ensure optimal nutrition, a person has to eat and drink enough of the foods thatcontain key nutrients, which include plenty of vitamins, minerals, protein and water,and adequate amounts of carbohydrates and fats.

http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nutrition-in-Cancer-Care-230.aspx