Cancer Fighters Thrive

SPRING 2014

Cancer Fighters Thrive is a quarterly print and online magazine bringing readers practical, innovative and inspirational information about cancer treatment and survivorship.

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12 cancer fighters thrive | spring 2014 cf thrive. com NUTRITION If you are looking ahead to cancer treatment, as either a patient or a caregiver, you may be worried about the side efects of treatment. Nutri- tion can play a signifcant role in helping you manage side efects and boost im- munity. While your care team will pro- vide you with valuable information about what to expect during treatment, it is also possible to empower yourself by taking steps to ensure that you are prepared to manage your own or a loved one's nutri- tional needs during this time. Step 1: KNOW THE VALUE OF NUTRITION DURING CANCER TREATMENT "Nutrition is the foundation of the im- mune system," says Kalli Castille, MS, RD, CSO, LD, Director of Nutritional Support and Culinary at Cancer Treatment Cen- ters of America® (CTCA) in Tulsa, Okla- homa. Nutrients from healthful foods fuel critical functions in the body to sup- port healing and help you maintain your strength, which allows you to manage treatment and related side efects. Managing or preventing side efects is important because some, including nau- sea, changes in taste and mouth sores, can make eating physically difcult, Castille says. If you are not able to eat and get the nutrients you need to support your im- mune system and build your strength, you may not be able to complete treatment. Taz Bhatia, MD, Founder and Direc- tor of the Atlanta Center for Holistic and Integrative Medicine, says that emotion- al stress can also be a factor prohibiting good nutrition: "Te loss of appetite and motivation to eat are common complaints of patients undergoing cancer therapy." Addressing these issues up-front through nutritional counseling can help combat some of the most common side efects, like cachexia (weight loss due to malnu- trition) and fatigue, Dr. Bhatia says. Step 2: IDENTIFY BENEFICIAL NUTRIENTS AND FOODS As you think ahead and plan how you will incorporate healthy foods throughout treatment, it is helpful to know which nu- trients, specifcally, will provide essential support as you undergo treatment. First on the list is protein. Castille says that "protein is a critical building block of the immune system" because it is respon- sible for helping regenerate healthy cells, including white and red blood cells, and rebuilding muscle. Experts recommend that patients aim to consume 20 to 25 grams of protein at each meal (or a total Maintaining good nutrition during cancer treatment is important; make sure you are prepared to manage your nutritional needs. By Diana Price Tree Steps to Good Nutrition cftSp#23vky.indd 12 2/3/14 11:11 PM

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