Having mesothelioma or lung cancer can be exhausting at times, and so is caring for a family member who has either one. Still, you can rest easy knowing that you have untiring patient advocates waiting for you at Kazan, McClain, Lyons, Greenwood and Harley.
In our nearly 40 years of experience helping people make informed legal and medical choices, we have learned that there are many ways to approach cancer care. Whether you’re a patient or a concerned caretaker, one thing that can help keep your body strong and your spirits high is good nutrition.
When someone is diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer, it is easy to let their (and your) diet go out the window. Here are some of the things we’ve learned over the years about keeping up the nutritional end of care.
For caretakers:
If you’re going to care for a friend or loved one, you’ll need to take care of yourself too. Eat three square meals a day. You may want to eat slightly more than usual (especially extra fruits, vegetables, whole grains or protein) since you’re probably burning more energy now. If you spend long hours in the hospital, skip the snack machines in favor of a good half-hour in the cafeteria. You might be surprised how refreshing it is to eat a real meal.
For patients:
In a way, our advice for you is almost no different. Dealing with illness is taxing on your body and mind, so eating wholesome foods can help you stay optimistic and energetic.
However, keep in mind that having mesothelioma or lung cancer can change your body’s needs.
To start, being diagnosed with the condition may leave you feeling sad or stunned. For a while, your appetite may drop off. During this time, lean on your friends a little. They may bring you hot meals or casseroles to show you that they love you. Try eating some. You’ll probably find that you’re hungrier than you thought.
Mesothelioma and lung cancer can also hit your appetite hard even before your diagnosis. These illnesses sometimes cause what’s called “cachexia,” which is loss of appetite, thinness and exhaustion, all rolled up into one. Cachexia can be a early sign of mesothelioma or lung cancer.
While you’re being treated for your illness, your appetite will probably stay low for a while. This is because chemotherapy, radiation treatment and recuperation from surgery can all make it hard to want to eat anything.
Tips for getting nutrition during treatment
- Eat many small meals instead of three big ones.
- Take little bites. This can help you digest food and keep it down.
- If you’re nauseated, wait a while before trying to eat.
- Drink plenty of water, but don’t overdo it. If you fill up on fluids, you’ll have little room for any food.
Related articles:
Strategies for Coping with a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Mesothelioma and Pain: What to Expect and How to Manage It
Mesothelioma and Exercise: What Patients Should Know About Physical Activity