Power Packing: Ensuring Effective Nutrition During Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment demands emotional resilience, physical strength, and importantly, specific nutritional requirements. Our bodies rely on calories and protein as fuel sources. These are vital for maintaining healthy organs, repairing muscles, and supporting daily activities. During cancer treatments—whether it's chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or post-surgery—these nutritional needs significantly increase.

Loss of appetite is a common side effect during cancer treatment that can lead to less calorie intake, malnutrition, and undesirable weight loss. Loss of muscle mass and increased fatigue can also occur. It is important to realize that malnutrition doesn’t only affect people who are underweight; it can affect individuals regardless of their weight category. This condition not only jeopardizes overall health but can also lead to unfavorable outcomes and treatment setbacks.

Proper nutrition and adequate calorie intake can actively enhance the effectiveness of cancer treatments, resulting in better outcomes. This is where a Power Packing can help! Adding the right kind of calories and protein will also support tissue healing, combat infections, and fortify the body.

What is Power Packing?

Power Packing is a nutritional strategy that maximizes calorie intake without necessarily increasing the serving size of the meals. It's about making every bite count and ensuring your body gets what it needs to thrive. The foundational method to power pack foods involves integrating additional fats, proteins, and complex carbohydrates into your favorite meals. Make sure and talk with your oncology team to learn if there are any foods you should avoid or limit.

Tips for Effective Power Packing

1. Fluid Timing: Consume fluids either 30 to 60 minutes before or after meals. Drinking during meals might make you feel too full by occupying precious stomach space. However, if you have difficulty swallowing, liquids might be easier to take in than solids.

2. Eat Frequently: Opt for smaller, more frequent meals—around 6 to 8 times a day. It's gentler on your system than three substantial meals.

3. Set the Ambiance: Eating in a pleasant environment with good company can enhance your appetite and eating experience.

4. Visual Appeal: Use small plates so the portions don’t look overwhelming. Adding a variety of colors in your meals can make them look more appetizing.

5. Stay Prepared: Keep nutritious snacks within arm's reach so you can munch whenever hunger strikes.

6. Stimulate Appetite: With your doctor's consent, engage in light exercises before meals to kickstart your appetite.

7. Your Favorites: Don't limit your favorite foods to specific times. Enjoy them whenever you crave them.

8. Listen to Your Body: Make the most of the times you feel the hungriest.

Even when eating becomes a challenge, it's vital to ensure your body gets the nourishment it requires. Proper nutrition and calorie intake will help your body stay strong potentially enhancing the effectiveness of your treatments. At Cancer Help Desk we strive to guide and support you in meeting your treatment goals. Check in each Monday for ideas on how to add more nutrition and healthy calories to your daily meals.

Always ensure that any changes to your diet or health routine are in consultation with a qualified medical practitioner.

Information provided by Cancer Help Desk is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, treatment, or other health care services. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider and talk with your healthcare provider about any questions you may have.