Researchers are learning that patients who eat well are better able to tolerate the side effects of their treatment. Therefore, good nutrition is important. Eating well means getting enough calories to prevent weight loss and having enough protein in the diet to build and repair skin, hair, muscles and organs. Many patients find that eating several small meals and snacks throughout the day is easier than trying to have three large meals. The side effects that patients have during cancer therapy vary from person to person and may even be different from one treatment to the next.
Doctors try to plan treatment to keep problems to a minimum.
Doctors, nurses and dietitians can explain the side effects of cancer treatment and can suggest ways to deal with them. Patients should follow their doctor's recom-mendations on health care and checkups. Having regular checkups allows any problems to be detected and treated promptly. When people have cancer, life can change for them and for the people who care about them. At times, patients and family members may be depressed, angry or frightened.