Cancer and cancer treatments can have a negative affect on appetite, create food aversions and alter the sense of taste and smell. In addition, medications can interfere with digestion and metabolism. To some, eating may become no longer enjoyable. To others, it may become a challenge. All of these factors may contribute to weight loss and poor outcomes⁴.

Unintentional weight loss is often one of the first noticeable signs of cancer, however some patients may not even realize their weight loss is associated with cancer. It is important not to wait for significant weight loss before taking action. Even a few pounds can indicate malnutrition. Clinical research has shown that “even small amounts of weight loss (less than 5% of body weight) may significantly worsen prognosis”.⁵

Minimizing weight loss is essential to ensuring better treatment outcomes. Patients often find it necessary to adjust their diet or take nutritional supplements in order to meet their nutritional needs during cancer treatment. Nourishing your body with healthy calories will help to increase or maintain your weight.

The most common side effect of cancer and its treatments is cancer-related fatigue. Everyday activities may seem overwhelming and patients often find themselves retreating to bed, but sleep may not be the only solution. While anxiety and sleeplessness can cause patients to be tired, an important and often overlooked contributor to fatigue is nutrition depletion and muscle wasting.^3,6 Cancer can affect the body’s ability to absorb the nutrients it needs to build and repair muscle. This leads to decreasing energy levels and fatigue, making it harder for cancer patients to recover from treatments and remain active in their daily lives.

Proper nutrition can be a significant factor in overcoming cancer-related fatigue, giving the body the building blocks it needs to repair tissue. A healthy diet will also increase energy levels, promoting faster recovery and greater tolerance to treatment.

1. Khalid U, et al. Symptoms and weight loss in patients with gastrointestinal and lung cancer at presentation. Support Care Center. 2007; 15: 39-46.
2. Marin Caro MM, et al. Nutritional intervention and quality of life in adult oncology patients. Clinical Nutrition. 2007; 26: 289-301.
3. Van Cutsem E, Arends J. The causes and consequences of cancer associated malnutrition. Eur J Oncol Nurs. 2005; 9 Suppl 2: S51-63.
4. Berteretche MV, et al. Decreased taste sensitivity in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. Support Care Center. 2004; 12: 571-6
5. Dewys WD, et al. Prognotic effect of weight loss prior to chemotherapy in cancer patients. Am J Med. 1980; 496.
6. Skipworth RJ, et al. The scientific rationale for optimizing nutritional support in cancer. Eur J Gastroenterol. 2007; 19: 371-7.