Loss of weight with mesothelioma and treatment can be severe, and can make it much harder to fight the cancer. You may have already lost weight by the time you are diagnosed. You need to try and gain as much weight back as you can before treatment.
The following are some tips regarding good nutrition for mesothelioma patients. For additional information see
- You need enough calories, protein, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals to try and prevent or reverse weight loss, and to have enough strength to fight the cancer. You especially need high calorie and high protein foods.
- Your diet may have to change from what you were eating previously, especially if you were watching your cholesterol, limiting red meat, and limiting calories.
- Drink as much water as possible. Chemotherapy may cause diarrhea or vomiting and the fluid intake can compensate the water loss.
- Avoid the use of tobacco products entirely.
- If your doctor allows it, one small glass of beer or wine with a meal can actually make your appetite stronger.
- Include a lot of fruits and vegetables. They contain almost all vitamins and minerals that are essential for your body. Consult with a dietician if you are not able to eat a balanced diet to see if you need supplements. It is more important for you to get enough protein and calories.
- Cook meats and fish thoroughly, as they may contain bacteria that can cause food-borne illnesses.
- Eat things that appeal to you. Add sugar, butter, milk and cheese to foods you are eating. There are many ways to increase the calories in the foods you are eating.
- You will need to continue to eat a high-calorie high-protein diet through your treatment. After you are done with treatment and you have regained lost weight, you would then want to go back to the balanced healthy diet recommended for adults.
Dr. Kaplan
