Diet Tips for Pancreatic Cancer Patients during and After Treatment

The pancreas is an essential gland in the body that secretes insulin. It is close to the duodenum, gallbladder, small intestine, and stomach. It has a significant impact on how food is digested. Specifically, the pancreas supports digestion by breaking down carbohydrates and secreting enzymes that aid in fat and protein digestion Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and surgery are all used to treat pancreatic cancer. However, the pancreatic cancer diet can help regulate the course of treatment. Treatments for pancreatic cancer include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. Pancreatic cancer has a negative impact on the body and a person's capacity to maintain a nutritious diet, regardless of the type of therapy. Hence, when facing pancreatic cancer, proper nutrition is essential at every stage of the journey. Patients can improve their quality of life, reduce side effects, and build strength by making the healthiest decisions possible to minimize side effects, gain strength and maintain the best quality of life. Let’s learn about the importance of right nutrition in patients with pancreatic cancer.

Nutrition Tips for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

 

Pancreatic cancer has a significant negative impact on the body, particularly in the areas of nutrition and diet, regardless of the kind of treatment. Here are some recommendations on how to maximize nutrition both during and after treatment for pancreatic cancer:

1. Eat small, frequent meals to maintain healthy weight: Whenever possible, try to eat a small bit of food every one to three hours. This is particularly crucial if you have had pancreatic cancer surgery since your body is relearning how to digest food. Eating more often and in smaller amounts will help your body adjust to digesting food more readily.

2. Stay hydrated: The best time to drink fluids is an hour before or after a meal. Aim for eight 8-ounce glasses of water/day. This will allow to avert nausea and refrain from consuming large amounts of low-calorie, nutritionally deficient liquids.

3. Choose foods that are easy to digest: Pancreatic tumors can affect how effectively pancreas are digesting foods. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly. Consuming food too rapidly can aggravate intestinal issues. Frequent, small meals are crucial for improved digestion and give your body permission to process tiny portions of food at a time.

4. Opt for foods high in protein: Protein-rich choices are among the most beneficial for maintaining pancreatic function. The body uses protein to repair tissues and cells. Additionally, it aids in the immune system's recuperation after disease. At every meal and snack, including a source of lean protein. Lean protein sources that are good include:

• Lean proteins like turkey, fish, or chicken
• Eggs
• Dairy replacements or low-fat dairy products like milk, yoghurt, and cheese
• Nut butter and nuts
• Beans
• Foods made from soy

5. Choose colorful foods: Incorporate at least five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

Whole fruits and vegetables are colorful foods that are high in antioxidants, which can help fight against cancer.

 

6. Maintain a food journal: Anyone who is having digestive issues might benefit greatly from keeping a food journal, especially those who have had pancreatic surgery. You can determine whether you can tolerate a new dish or meal by keeping a food journal.

 

7. Choose healthy fats: Select healthy fat sources. Steer clear of fatty, greasy, and fried foods instead, choose baked, broiled, or grilled items. Among the good fats are:

 

• Olive oil
• Seeds
• Nuts
• Avocados

Also, limit use of added sugars and sweets. People with pancreatic cancer regularly experience increased difficulty in digesting foods that are loaded with sugar. Sweets and desserts might have negative impacts.

 

Diet after surgery

·         Eating 6–8 small meals to avoid feeling overly full. Meals that are smaller are easier to digest. Eat two to three hours apart.

·         Take small sips of liquids with meals. Excessive fluid intake during meals may aggravate nausea or make the patient feel fuller more quickly.

·         After surgery, record your diet in a daily journal. Keep track of your daily weight, the quantity of pancreatic enzymes you use, the frequency and regularity of your bowel motions, and your blood glucose levels in addition to the meals and amounts you eat.

 

 

Foods to be Avoided in Pancreatic Cancer

• Red meat and processed meat
• Foods containing high fructose corn syrup
• High-fat, greasy, or fried foods
• Dishes that are spicy and contain hot peppers or onions
• Drinks with caffeine
• Alcohol
• Sugar and refined carbohydrates

 

The right type of food can lessen the most difficult symptoms related to pancreatic cancer. Healthy, calorie-dense foods can help the patient’s stay energized, engaged, and more capable of overcoming cancer. Discuss the ideal foods for you with your physician and dietician. Soon after the cancer diagnosis, it is recommended to connect with your registered dietitian. These health professionals can work with you to build a customized plan that is centered on your requirements and keeps you as healthy as possible for the road ahead.

If you have any questions related to pancreatic cancer, you can check with our oncologists at Ask a doctor, 24x7.