Exceptional nutritional intake and having proper diet is of utmost importance. This especially refers to people with a disease such as lung cancer. However, pain in the throat, difficulty swallowing and lack of appetite are likely to keep the person from eating and taking care of the body properly.As might be expected, every person diagnosed with this disease has different nutritional needs. They depend on the person`s weight, height, current treatment plan and complications caused by the disease. In general, there isn`t any prescribed diet plan for lung cancer patients. However, certain nutritional goals are crucial. They include:
- Providing the body with carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, minerals and fluids
- Maintenance of ideal weight
- Elimination of excess pounds for an overweight individual
- Keep the side effects of lung cancer treatment from worsening
Consulting the doctor, nutritionist or dietician is definitely the best way to find to an adequate diet. The tips outlined below are very helpful on how to ensure that he/she is getting all the nutrients their body needs:
Offer Bland Foods to Avoid Stomach Upset
The lung cancer treatment tends to leave the person with an upset stomach most of the time. This can be kept in check and to a minimum by serving bland foods.
Steam Vegetables to Make them Soft
Due to the fresh produce, the person will find it easier to consume vegetables and reap their variety of nutrients.
Allow the Individual to Drink lots of Water
Proper hydration is crucial, regardless of whether or not lung cancer is present. The individual diagnosed with this disease is highly recommended to consume a lot of water in between and not during meals in order to ensure that he/she will be able to eat sufficiently.
Serve High-Fiber Foods
The person is likely to experience constipation, due to the lack of physical activity and the treatment itself. Including high-fiber foods in their daily diet, such as oatmeal and whole-grain products promotes regular bowel movement. In addition, the vegetables should be steamed.
Thick Liquids are Easier to Swallow
Lung cancer patients are recommended to consume shakes and smoothies, as they are extremely easy to swallow. Moreover, they soothe the painful and swollen throat. The consumption of shakes and smoothies helps the person boost his/her intake of fluids.
Provide Small Frequent Meals Throughout the Day
Instead of getting three square meals daily, it would be better to take small servings of food more frequently. This helps make sure that the lung cancer patient is getting sufficient amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and other nutrients, despite the lack of appetite.
Garnish Food Herbs and Spices
As mentioned in the very beginning, the lack of appetite may prevent the person from getting all the essential nutrients he/she needs for strength and recovery. Garnishing the foods makes them more delightful and appetizing. Make sure you avoid herbs, spices, and condiments which may irritate the mouth and throat.
Refrain from Serving Foods with Rough Textures and Pointed Edges
People who have undergone treatment for lung cancer are very likely to have mouth sores. The consumption of soft or semi-soft foods prevents the development of additional mouth sores. Stay away from chips, crackers, and even some raw fruits and vegetables.
Make Mint or Ginger Tea to Ease an Upset Stomach
It was already mentioned that an upset stomach is one of the most common issues a lung cancer patients faces with. Luckily, it can be relieved by slowly dipping a cup of mint or ginger tea. However, make sure the tea is not too hot, as it may sear the person`s mouth and throat.
Steer Clear of Offering Spicy and Acidic Foods
Hot, sour and tart foods may irritate mouth sores and make it difficult for the person to eat. Simply put, stay away from acidic fruits and anything that contains tomato or tomato-based ingredients.
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