Nutrition
Eating well during cancer treatment means getting enough calories and protein
to prevent weight loss, regain strength, and rebuild healthy tissues. But
eating well may be difficult after treatment for oral cancer. Some people with
cancer find it hard to eat because they lose their appetite. They may not feel
like eating because they are uncomfortable or tired. A dry or sore mouth or
changes in smell and taste also may make eating difficult.
If your mouth is dry, you may find that soft foods moistened with sauces or
gravies are easier to eat. Thick soups, puddings, and milkshakes often are
easier to swallow. Nurses and dietitians can help you choose the right foods.
Also, the National Cancer Institute booklet
Eating Hints for Cancer Patients
contains many useful ideas and recipes. The "National Cancer Institute
Information Resources" section tells how to get this publication.
After surgery or radiation therapy for oral cancer, some people need a feeding
tube. A feeding tube is a flexible plastic tube that is passed into the stomach
through an incision in the abdomen. In almost all cases, the tube is temporary.
Most people gradually return to a regular diet.
To protect your mouth during cancer treatment, it helps to avoid:
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Sharp, crunchy foods like taco chips
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Foods that are hot, spicy, or high in acid like citrus fruits and juices
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Sugary foods that can cause cavities
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Alcoholic drinks
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