Nutrition Information

A large part of benefiting from mesothelioma treatment involves proper nutrition. Proper, balanced nutrition is important for any lifestyle, but is especially crucial for the well being of cancer patients in regards to controlling symptoms, fighting infection, healing, and maintaining energy. Patients who have mesothelioma have high risk factors for becoming malnourished due to difficulty in eating properly. One must ensure they receive a sufficient amount of vitamins, minerals, fluids, protein, and other resources to maintain a proper weight and better overall health.

When a patient is diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to evaluate their nutritional status. An assessment of this type may require a review of appetite affecting symptoms, amounts and types of food one eats, weight loss or increase, or other factors that affect daily living.

Nutrition Therapy

Because of the affects mesothelioma can have on nutrition, regular practices deemed adequate for healthy persons may not be enough for mesothelioma patients. Cancer patients are more likely to feel less hungry, and be satisfied by small portions of food. Higher calorie and protein consumption and lessoned fiber intake are typically more of focus for mesothelioma patients as opposed to including more fruits and vegetables, to help patients keep their energy and strength. The challenge mesothelioma poses for getting enough nutrients makes nutritional therapy a recommended practice for patients.

Nutrition therapy is beneficial for helping patients not only prevent, but also correct the affects of malnourishment. It can also support maintenance of muscle and bone mass as well as make more aggressive treatments like surgery tolerable.

Mesothelioma Treatment and Nutrition

Most mesothelioma treatment plans are designed to destroy cancer cells, but may also destroy healthy cells in the process. A major side effect of this is malnutrition due to fatigue, appetite loss, and pain. Mouth sores, vomiting, and improper bowl function are other factors that may affect ones food intake and nutrition. Along with developing a treatment program, it is often necessary to enlist a nutritionist to develop a nutritional plan as well, especially when undergoing more aggressive treatments. It is important to be prepared for both the good days, when one can consume more food, and the bad days when one may not feel like eating as much. Supplements or foods that may be tolerable should be on hand for days one may have issues with their appetite. Staying informed and being prepared can help one maintain a more positive attitude and decrease anxiety.