The different types of cancer that can affect the throat, mouth and other head and neck parts are called head and neck cancer. Many cancer doctors in Siliguri are specialised in treating head and neck cancer. Consuming solid food can be quite difficult during this cancer but it is essential to take care of the nutrition balance for the well-being of the patients.
While receiving radiation therapy during the treatment of the head and neck cancer side effects can occur causing difficulty in taking sufficient amounts of food and liquid. The side effects of head and neck cancer include-
- Anorexia
- Loss of taste
- Painful swallowing and chewing
- Dry mouth
- Mouth sore
- Nausea
It is essential to provide sufficient nutrition to the patients who are receiving treatment for head and neck cancer. Even if you are overweight it is very important to consume sufficient food to maintain weight while receiving radiation for cancer treatment.
Getting help from the cancer specialist near me
At the time of treatment for head and neck cancer, a healthy diet plays a vital role even after the treatment is over. Side effects such as anorexia and weight loss can be prevented through a healthy diet. You will also be able to respond properly to the cancer treatment through it.
The experts who take care of the diet and nutrition of the patients are known as Registered Dieticians (RDs). If you want to manage your eating problems along with maintaining a proper weight you must consult with an RD regularly while you are undergoing radiation therapy for your head and neck cancer.
It is seen that patients who visit an RD during cancer treatment can manage their weight more efficiently in comparison to those who don’t.
Strategies for nutrition balance during the treatment
During the time of cancer treatment added sugar or dietary fat are not restricted but if you want to manage your weight you can follow some other nutritious tactics some of such strategies to eat healthy without compromising health care-
- Eat frequent meals in small amounts- Rather than consuming three large portions of meals every day you can switch to taking small meals throughout the day.
- Carry Food- When you go out to see your doctor or for your treatment and other activities you can carry some food and healthy snacks with you.
- Eat food with dense calories- You must consume those food items which are packed with nutrition in each bite and are rich in protein.
- Add colour and texture to your food-To increase your appetite you can add lots of colours and textures such as adding more vegetables and fruits of different flavours to your diet along with foods rich in calories and protein.
- Avoid eating only plain food- To make each bite count you can add more protein or calories to your food to make it more appetising.
- Have more liquid and soft food- To take a break from constant chewing which can be difficult during head and neck cancer start taking more liquids and soft foods which will add to your calorie balance and help you maintain your weight.
Dietary recommendation for head and neck cancer
- Fresh fruits along with yoghurt or cheese.
- Banana with peanut butter and yoghurt.
- Hot cereal and peanut butter.
- Super milk
- Soft-boiled egg
- Scrambled egg with cheese and avocado.
- Mashed potatoes mixed with milk and butter.
- Pureed vegetables
It is very important to maintain a balanced weight during and after the head and neck cancer treatment. You can consult with a cancer doctor in Siliguri and learn about the diet chart that you have to follow during the treatment procedure. By following a well-balanced diet you will be able to respond to the cancer treatment properly and become cured in no time.
