Nutrition for colorectal cancer patients

This is an automatically translated article.

The article is professionally consulted by doctors of Internal Oncology Department - Vinmec Times City International General Hospital.
Colorectal cancer and its treatments can affect the body's ability to digest food, fluids, and absorb nutrients. For people who have had the disease, incorporating healthy foods, lots of vegetables and lean protein into the diet can help keep the body healthy and well-nourished during and after treatment.
There are many side effects of colorectal cancer and even with treatment: Diarrhea, constipation, weight loss or gain, loss of appetite, heartburn, fatigue, low blood counts, and increased risk of infection. coincide. These reactions make it impossible for the body to absorb the vital nutrients it needs. Here are some tips from Prof. Dr. Nguyen Tuyet Mai, Head of Internal Oncology Department of Vinmec Times City International Hospital about foods to eat and abstain from:

1. Foods to eat

1.1 Eat more vegetables and fruits It is advisable to eat all kinds of vegetables and fruits of any color, all of which have nutritional components that support the immune system. Dark green vegetables, mangoes, strawberries, and melons are very good vegetables and also very easy to eat

1.2 Drink lots of water Drinking water makes digestion easier and at the same time alleviates side effects like constipation and fatigue. If drinking unprocessed water doesn't please you, squeeze some lemon or some strawberries into the water.
1.3 Dairy products Eat dairy foods that are high in calcium and vitamin D. The probiotics in these foods are helpful for digestion.
1.4 Whole grains Whole grains, such as cut oats, quinoa, and brown rice, provide plenty of fiber and important vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and folate.
>> See also: Macrobiotics and cancer: What you need to know - Article written by T.S, B.S Pham Thi Viet Huong - Doctor of Hematology - Oncology - Hematology and Cell Therapy Unit - Center Regenerative Medicine and Cell Therapy, Vinmec Times City International General Hospital

2. Foods to avoid

2.1 Limiting coffee and alcohol This improves energy and is because many drugs are not compatible with normal amounts of caffeine and alcohol.
2.2 Abstain from sugar An ideal diet for colorectal cancer is similar to a diabetic diet; eat often, high in protein and limit processed foods, carbohydrates, sugary drinks and desserts

3. Eat small meals!

Eating small meals on a regular basis can help you easily absorb all the nutrients you need when you don't feel like eating, and can also help your body easily digest and absorb than. Eating small meals also helps control symptoms associated with anorexia, such as fatigue, reflux or diarrhea.
Also according to Assoc. Dr. Nguyen Tuyet Mai, a diet rich in green vegetables combined with fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. Many fatty fish are also a rich source of vitamin D, which has been shown to help fight colon cancer and several other types of cancer. In addition, you should limit your intake of red meat, processed meat and refined sugar.

In April & May 2021, when there is a need for colorectal cancer examination and treatment at Vinmec Times City International Hospital & Vinmec Central Park International Hospital, customers will enjoy preferential treatment. Double offer:
- Free specialist examination and 50% discount on Colorectal Cancer Screening Package
- 50% discount on costs for customers with indications for post-examination treatment. The program is limited to the corresponding technique of each hospital and to customers who perform this treatment technique for the first time at Vinmec.

Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.