What Mesothelioma Patients Should Eat During Treatment

While food cannot cure your mesothelioma, it is still very beneficial to maintain a healthy diet during your treatments. Practicing healthy habits and getting the proper nutrition not only aids in your healing process but also helps you feel better overall.

As your body changes during treatment, you will want to adjust your diet to accompany these changes as it will be crucial in the fight against your cancer.

Regardless of what treatment you’ll receive, you may find it easiest to prepare high calorie, high protein foods ahead of time and store them in your freezer or pantry. 

In order to get the most nutrients possible, here are some of the best foods you or your loved one should eat while your body is fighting mesothelioma.

Calories and Protein 

When developing a meal plan during your treatment regimen, calories and proteins are two of the most important factors to consider. Focus on eating protein rich foods to help your body stay strong throughout your cancer treatments.

Many people immediately refer to meat when it comes to thinking about protein, however, there are a few other great protein sources to choose from:

• Eggs
• Milk
• Cheese
• Tofu
• Chickpeas
• Specific types of nuts and seeds
• Beans

However, lean proteins like chicken and fish are all great sources of protein.

Oftentimes, during treatment, patients will feel sick and nauseous and may not get their normal calorie intake. They may skip or miss meals because of how sick they feel.

To maintain strength, focusing on high-calorie meals and foods is an essential part of your cancer journey. Here are few examples on how to maintain a healthy calorie amount:

• Eat cream cheese with toast, bagels or other breads
• Add butter or margarine to potatoes, rice, vegetables, pasta or toast
• Use high calorie dressing on salads and cooked vegetables
• Snack on chips and guacamole 
• Add cream sauce to pasta dishes and vegetables

It is recommended that you consume 45-60 grams of protein per day, according to Stanford Health Care.

Fruits and Vegetables 

Another important food that can preserve the body’s energy are plants or other organic foods. Dark leafy greens like kale, collards and or cabbage contain vitamin C, A and K, which are all great for helping fight your mesothelioma.

Including a variety of different fruits and vegetables in your diet can also be great sources of antioxidants and fiber. Some recommended foods to consume include:

• Carrots
• Sweet potatoes
• Tomatoes
• Watermelon
• Grapefruit
• Corn
• Kiwi

Eating fruits and veggies not only provide you with vitamins and minerals but can also keep you hydrated.

Healthy Fats

In order to promote mental health and combat chemo brain, patients should eat healthy fats loaded with omega-3. Nutritious fats, like unsaturated fats, are also heart healthy. Foods that contain these essential fats include:

• Nuts 
• Avocados
• Salmon
• Olive oil 

Many animal products also contain saturated fats, like milk and cheese and can be eaten in moderation. 

While there is not one diet to follow throughout your mesothelioma treatment journey, eating a variety of the foods listed above can provide you with the necessary strength and nutrients your body needs to help your fight against cancer.