It is always important to eat well. If you have a malignancy or cancer, it is especially important because any type of therapy used in the treatment of the malignancy or cancer is very stressful to your body. The calories and nutrients in food provide energy and help heal and repair tissue. The side effects of chemotherapy or radiation therapy can make it difficult to eat because of mouth soreness or difficulty swallowing.
Cancer drugs can cause nausea.
Being nervous or worried can result in a loss of appetite. These therapies have been shown to decrease the duration and frequency of nausea and to reduce anxiety levels. Nausea and vomiting may also be controlled by medications. Work with your healthcare team to make sure everything is being done to keep you as well nourished as possible. Proper nourishment decreases the risk of getting an infection.