Registered Dietitians
Nutrition is an important part of maintaining health while you receive chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy. Registered Dietitians are available for consultation at North Star Lodge. Your physician may refer you to a dietitian during your therapy.
Some therapies may affect taste and appetite. Dietitians can assist you in making healthy choices and offer suggestions for eating a nutritious diet if you are not feeling well.
Dietitians can also help with weight loss and fatigue, focusing specifically on your individual needs. Call 574-3408 to schedule an appointment to talk to a dietitian.
Why should you see a Dietitian?
- To learn skills to manage your own nutrition
- To learn healthy eating practices
- To learn nutrition options to deal with the side effects from cancer treatment
Understanding Nutrients
Good nutrition is important for everyone, but especially for the person being treated for cancer. You should think of your diet as another part of your treatment plan. Both the illness and the treatment can affect your appetite and your body's ability to tolerate certain foods. The following information is offered only as a supplement to your consultation with your physician or Dietitian.
Nutrition recommendations for people with cancer are designed to help build up strength and withstand the effects of treatment. To achieve these goals, those with cancer should aim to eat high-calorie foods that increase protein -- milk, cheese, cooked eggs, meats, poultry, fish, beans, legumes, and nuts. A higher intake of sauces and gravies, butter, margarine, and oil will increase calories.
Nutrients
- Protein is essential for growth, to repair body tissue, and to maintain a healthy immune system
- Carbohydrates and fats are the body's major energy (calorie) sources
- Vitamins and minerals are essential for proper growth and development
- Water and fluids are very important daily to prevent possible dehydration
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