Why might a patient need to adjust their dietary habits while undergoing chemotherapy?

Adjusting dietary habits during chemotherapy is essential for patients primarily to manage gastrointestinal side effects and maintain proper nutrition. Chemotherapy can significantly impact the gastrointestinal system, leading to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and changes in taste or appetite. These effects can make it challenging for patients to consume adequate nutrition.

By modifying their diet, patients can help alleviate these symptoms and ensure they receive the necessary nutrients to support their recovery and overall health. For example, incorporating bland foods can mitigate nausea, while plenty of fluids can help address dehydration due to diarrhea. Furthermore, a well-balanced diet can strengthen the immune system and enhance the body’s ability to cope with the stresses of treatment.

While increasing caloric intake for weight gain, incorporating more protein to combat fatigue, and preparing for surgery are important considerations, they are generally secondary to the immediate need for managing side effects and maintaining sufficient nutrition throughout the chemotherapy process.