Nutrition and Advanced Cancer

Nutrition and Treatment | Nutrition and Chemotherapy | Protein Boosters | Immune System Boosters

Because mesothelioma can take decades to surface and the symptoms are sometimes difficult to recognize, many individuals who are diagnosed with the disease are already in its advanced stages. 

When someone has advanced cancer, their care centers on making them as comfortable as possible, relieving symptoms of the disease, and helping them maintain their independence.

Advanced cancer carries its own challenges as far as nutrition is concerned. Eating is often difficult for those with advanced malignant mesothelioma because they may have difficulty breathing or swallowing, may suffer from nausea or vomiting, might have dry mouth or a sore throat, food may taste different, or the individual may simply lack the desire to eat. 

Most doctors encourage terminal patients to eat whatever they feel like eating, but good nutrition remains paramount to extending one’s life, even if just for a short time.  Good food is needed to increase energy and maintain your body weight.  A sound diet will also help you to tolerate the effects of any treatment which may still be a part of your palliative therapy.

A few tips are offered to help you maintain good nutrition.  Remember, even though you may feel as if eating is no longer important, nutritious foods will help you feel better in the long run and can assist you in maintaining quality of life for as long as possible.

• If you suffer from a sore throat or have difficulty swallowing, choose soft foods like yogurt, pudding, or ice cream, or consider drinking nutrition shakes like Ensure ® or Boost ®.  Fruit juices are good, too.
• Continue eating as much protein as possible.  Protein can be found not only in meat or fish but also in cheeses, eggs, beans, and nuts.
• Eat high calorie foods to help maintain your weight.
• Fluids are important to keep your bowels functioning properly, but try not to consume too much fluid with your meals.  They’ll make you feel full quickly and, in turn, you may not eat enough.  If you have dry mouth, drink between meals.
• If you can’t face a large meal, eat several small ones each day or eat whenever you feel you can.  There’s no need to stick to a particular mealtime regimen.