Chemotherapy is a common cancer treatment where the medications are administered to the patient orally or intravenously. Although it is an integral part of the treatment, the procedure can cause multiple complications due to its side effects. This makes it extremely important for the patient to maintain the appropriate dietary and lifestyle habits while undergoing chemotherapy.

A few of the symptoms that one may have to endure are fatigue, dry mouth, nausea, taste changes and trouble keeping the food down, at least in the initial few days after the therapy as it targets not only the diseased cells but the healthy cells too. However, with regular balanced meals, one can gain their strength back and get ready for the next cycle of chemotherapy. Know more about some of the best beneficial snacks for cancer patients to nourish the body in the right way.

Top 5 snack ideas for chemotherapy patients

• Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a powerful combination of carbs, protein, and fiber, and antioxidants. Its high beta-glucan content is gut-friendly as it supplies good bacteria to the gut. It can be had in the form of overnight oats, with fresh toppings added in the morning as per taste. One can add nuts and seeds such as almonds, walnuts, chia seeds or flax seeds and fruits such as berries and be good to go! This is one of the most healthy and beneficial snacks for cancer patients.
• Eggs: Eggs are a complete meal by themselves since they pack quite a punch with six grams of fat and 4 grams of protein. It keeps one full for longer and a good soft hard-boiled egg is one of the top beneficial snacks for cancer patients as it is easy to eat, especially for patients with mouth sores.
• Nuts: Nuts are a wholesome way to beat the hunger pangs. There are a plethora of options to have such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, pistachios, Brazil nuts, and macadamia nuts. Nuts are a potent combination of vitamins and minerals, proteins and healthy fats. They are also a rich source of antioxidants, aiding in fighting the free radicals that damage the healthy cells in the body. It is essential to not eat too many nuts at once since they can be calorie-heavy.
• Smoothies : Smoothies are one of the most beneficial snacks for cancer patients, especially when one is dealing with mouth sores and having a hard time chewing their food. Individuals can combine fruits, veggies, a source of protein, and fat. An ideal healthy smoothie includes a leafy green in the form of spinach or kale, fruits such as apples or berries, and peanut butter or any other nut butter. One can add freshly ground flax seeds or chia seeds to make it more delicious. Sweetening it a little with a drizzle of wild honey or maple syrup also works wonders.

These healthy beneficial snacks for cancer patients will help nourish the body with the required nutrients. It is important to remember that having small snacks at regular intervals is easier on the stomach than large meals and to consult the primary health care practitioner before introducing any new foods to the diet.