Chemotherapy and Dietary Adjustments

Chemotherapy can change how food tastes and may cause mouth sores. To help with these issues, patients can try eating liquid or soft foods. Using plastic utensils can also help if food tastes metallic. It’s important to avoid icy or frozen foods to prevent cold sensitivity caused by certain drugs like cisplatin.

Immunotherapy and Nutritional Needs

Immunotherapy for mesothelioma can lead to side effects such as nausea. Foods like toast, oatmeal, broth, and baked or broiled proteins such as chicken or tofu are often recommended. If side effects occur, they should be reported to an oncologist immediately.

Managing Side Effects of Pain Medications

Pain medications can decrease appetite, cause nausea, and lead to constipation. Increasing dietary fiber and water intake can help manage constipation. It’s crucial to drink plenty of water when increasing fiber to avoid worsening the condition.

Radiation Therapy and Digestive Health

Radiation therapy around the chest can affect swallowing. Although it’s rare for peritoneal mesothelioma patients to receive radiation around the abdomen, it can cause digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, cramps, bloating, and diarrhea.

Surgical Considerations and Nutrition

Some patients may need to gain weight before surgery. Maintaining a healthy weight can improve wound healing, reduce infection risk, and aid recovery. Proper nutrition after surgery is also essential to replace blood loss and boost energy levels.

Foods to Aid Recovery After Mesothelioma Treatment

Recovering from mesothelioma treatment requires a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Here are some guidelines to help patients on their journey to recovery.

Tips for Getting Proper Nutrition

Eating well is crucial for mesothelioma patients, but it can be challenging. Here are some tips to help you get the nutrition you need.

Eating Smaller, Frequent Meals

Instead of three large meals, try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This can help if your appetite and weight loss are issues. Grazing can make it easier to get the calories and nutrients you need without feeling too full.

Snacking and Meal Timing

Plan your snacks and meals to ensure you’re eating regularly. Keep healthy snacks handy, like nuts, fruits, or yogurt. Eating at regular intervals can help maintain your energy levels and prevent nausea.

Incorporating Protein in Every Meal

Protein is essential for recovery and maintaining muscle mass. Try to include a source of protein in every meal, such as lean meats, beans, or dairy products. This can help you stay strong and support your immune system.

Juicing for Nutrient Intake

Juicing can be a great way to get vitamins and minerals, especially if you find it hard to eat solid foods. Fresh juices made from fruits and vegetables can be easier to consume and digest, providing a nutrient boost when you need it most.

Working with a Dietitian

Finding a Specialized Dietitian

When searching for a dietitian, it’s crucial to consult your oncology care team for recommendations or referrals. Nutrition for cancer patients, especially those undergoing treatment for mesothelioma, is a specialized field. Oncology dietitians can help patients and their families develop a plan to support their well-being during and after treatment.

Benefits of Professional Guidance

Working with a dietitian offers numerous benefits:

  • Avoiding foods that may worsen symptoms
  • Conducting nutritional assessments and developing a care plan
  • Finding nutritional and dietary supplements to help during cancer treatment
  • Understanding the challenges of cancer nutrition and how to combat treatment side effects

A dietitian can work with the patient to address their needs at every step of their cancer care.

Creating a Personalized Nutrition Plan

A personalized nutrition plan is essential for mesothelioma patients. This plan should consider:

  • Specific side effects the patient is trying to address
  • The patient’s mesothelioma treatment plan
  • Whether they are currently in treatment or recovery

Mesothelioma patients should always discuss their dietary plans with a doctor. Every patient will have their own unique needs throughout the cancer journey.

Troubleshooting Common Dietary Issues

Cancer diagnosis and treatment present many challenges to patients. One of these difficulties is finding the time and energy to follow a healthy diet. Mesothelioma patients may find it challenging to stick to a new diet because of nausea, fatigue and other side effects from treatment.

These challenges can make consuming any food difficult, let alone recommended foods. Patients should speak with their care team about the challenges they are facing. Doctors and dietitians can help craft diet plans and find recipes that are easy to prepare and enticing to eat.

Challenges to Eating a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy and well-balanced diet is essential, but mesothelioma patients face more challenges than most. Here are some tips to help you when eating is difficult and to address specific needs.

Food Safety for Mesothelioma Patients

Avoiding Contaminated Foods

For mesothelioma patients, avoiding contaminated foods is crucial. Their immune systems are often weakened by treatments, making them more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. To reduce the risk, patients should avoid raw or undercooked meat, poultry, seafood, and eggs. Unpasteurized milk and cheeses should also be avoided. Fiber-rich foods can be beneficial, but they must be properly cleaned and cooked.

Proper Food Storage and Handling

Proper food storage and handling are essential to prevent contamination. Here are some tips:

  • Clean: Wash hands with warm, soapy water before and after handling food. Rinse fruits and vegetables under running water.
  • Separate: Use separate cutting boards and knives for raw meat and other foods to avoid cross-contamination.
  • Cook: Ensure that meats are cooked to the appropriate temperature to kill harmful bacteria.
  • Chill: Refrigerate perishable foods promptly and keep the refrigerator at or below 40°F.

Cooking Foods Thoroughly

Cooking foods thoroughly is vital for killing harmful bacteria. Meats should be cooked to the recommended internal temperatures. For example, poultry should reach 165°F, while ground meats should be cooked to 160°F. Using a food thermometer can help ensure that foods are cooked properly.

Rinsing and Preparing Produce

Rinsing and preparing produce correctly can help remove potential contaminants. Fruits and vegetables should be rinsed under running water, even if they will be peeled. Avoid using soap or commercial produce washes. For leafy greens, remove the outer leaves and rinse the inner leaves thoroughly.