how poor nutrition increases risk of infection
Poor nutrition can affect infection risk in people with cancer. All cells need nutrients to grow and work. Lack of vitamins, minerals, calories, and protein can weaken your immune system and make it less able to find and destroy germs.This means people who are poorly nourished (malnourished) are more likely to develop infections.eople with cancer often need extra calories and protein to support their immune system cells and other tissues. For example, recovery from surgery increases the bodyâs need for nutrients. People with cancer might be poorly nourished for many reasons: 1  The cancer itself can make it hard to eat or digest food.