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Your Diet Is an Important Part of Your Treatment
Your
diet
is an important part of your treatment for cancer. Eating the right kinds of
foods before, during, and after your treatment can help you feel better and
stay stronger.
The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has prepared this information to help you
learn about your diet needs during treatment and to help you cope with side
effects that may affect eating. It is designed for cancer patients and their
families and other caregivers. The information here has been gathered from many
sources and reflects the tried-and-true experience of cancer patients and the
doctors, nurses, and dietitians who work with them.
A
registered dietitian is your best source of
information about your diet. The information here will add to what the
dietitian can tell you. Feel free to ask for help or advice when you need it.
Writing down your questions in advance will help you make sure you get the
information you need. Ask the dietitian to repeat or explain anything that is
not clear. She or he can also explain anything in this book if you have a
question and can give you more detailed information. Your doctor or nurse can
also give you helpful advice and can refer you to a registered dietitian. If
you cannot get a referral, call the American Dietetic Association's (ADA)
toll-free nutrition hotline. The information specialist you talk to can help
you find a registered dietitian in your area. The
Resources 1 section at the end of Eating Hints provides the telephone
number and other contact information for the ADA.
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