Booklet: What You Need to Know about Pancreatic Cancer

Nutrition for Cancer Patients

Eating well during cancer treatment means getting enough calories and protein to help prevent weight loss and maintain strength. Eating well often helps people feel better and have more energy.

Some people with cancer find it hard to eat well. They may lose their appetite. In addition, common side effects of treatment, such as nausea, vomiting, or mouth sores, can make eating difficult. Often, foods taste different. Also, people being treated for cancer may not feel like eating when they are uncomfortable or tired.

Cancer of the pancreas and its treatment may interfere with production of pancreatic enzymes and insulin. As a result, patients may have problems digesting food and maintaining the proper blood sugar level. They may need to take medicines to replace the enzymes and hormones normally produced by the pancreas. These medicines must be given in just the right amount for each patient. The doctor will watch the patient closely and adjust the doses or suggest diet changes when needed. Careful planning and checkups are important to help avoid nutrition problems leading to weight loss, weakness, and lack of energy.

Doctors, nurses, and dietitians can offer advice on how to eat well during cancer treatment. Patients and their families also may want to read the National Cancer Institute booklet Eating Hints for Cancer Patients, which contains many useful suggestions.

 << Back                         Back to Content Page                            Next >>