Colon Cancer Nutrition
For people with colon cancer, nutrition is an important consideration -- before, during, and after treatment. The disease itself, along with certain side effects of treatment, can make eating right a challenge. Just a few of the eating-related problems that can result from colon cancer or its treatment include loss of appetite, dry mouth, nausea or vomiting, sore mouth, and lactose intolerance. The following article discusses colon cancer nutrition in detail and provides suggestions to help you minimize nutrition-related problems associated with colon cancer and its treatment.
Colon Cancer Nutrition: An Overview
Your diet is an important part of your treatment for
colon cancer. Eating the right kinds of foods before, during, and after your treatment can help you feel better and stay stronger.
This article is intended to help you learn about your dietary needs during treatment and to help you cope with side effects that may affect your eating habits. It is meant for
colon cancer patients and their families and other caregivers.
At the end of this article you'll find several tables containing information related to the discussion of colon cancer and nutrition.
A registered dietitian is your best source of information about your diet. The information provided here will supplement what the dietitian can tell you. Feel free to ask for help or advice when you need it. Writing down your questions in advance will help you make sure you get the information you need. Ask the dietitian to repeat or explain anything that is not clear. She or he can also explain anything in this article if you have a question, and can give you more detailed information. Your doctor or nurse can also offer you advice and can refer you to a registered dietitian. If you cannot get a referral, try calling the American Dietetic Association's (ADA) toll-free nutrition hotline or using their online resources.
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD