Cancer can change the way the body uses food.

Tumors may produce chemicals that change the way the body uses certain nutrients. The body's use of protein, carbohydrates, and fat may be affected, especially by tumors of the stomach or intestines. A patient may appear to be eating enough, but the body may not be able to absorb all the nutrients from the food. Diets higher in protein and calories can help correct this and prevent the onset of cachexia. Drugs may also be helpful. It is important to monitor nutrition early, as cachexia is difficult to completely reverse.

Drugs may help relieve cancer symptoms and side effects that cause weight loss.

Early treatment of cancer symptoms and side effects that affect eating and cause weight loss is important. Both nutrition therapy and drugs can help the patient maintain a healthy weight. The types of drugs commonly used to relieve these symptoms and side effects include the following:

• Medicines to prevent nausea and vomiting.
• Medicines to prevent diarrhea.
• Pancreatic enzymes.
• Laxatives (to promote bowel movements).
• Medicines for mouth problems (to clean the mouth, stimulate saliva, prevent infections, relieve pain, and heal sores).
• Pain medications.

(Refer to the Nutrition Screening and Assessment section and the Nutrition Suggestions for Symptom Relief section for more information.)

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