A cancer diagnosis often comes with lots of questions about food. Should you cut out sugar? Do you need expensive supplements? Is there a "best" diet during cancer treatment?

Friends, family, and the internet may offer advice that sounds convincing, but it's not always backed by science. With so many mixed messages, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.

That's where a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) can help.

How can a registered dietitian help during cancer treatment?

An RDN is an important member of your cancer care team, just like your doctor or nurse. They are experts in nutrition and can help you make food choices that support your health before, during, and after cancer treatment.

Cancer and its treatments can affect appetite, taste, digestion, and swallowing. An RDN works with you to develop an eating plan that meets your nutritional needs while fitting your preferences, symptoms, and lifestyle.

For example, after chemotherapy, some people notice a metallic taste in their mouth. A registered dietitian nutritionist may recommend:

• Adding citrus, like lemon or orange, to foods.
• Trying different seasonings.
• Serving foods cold, which may help reduce strong tastes and smells.

If swallowing becomes difficult, an RDN can also suggest softer foods that are easier to eat while still providing the nutrients your body needs.

Why does nutrition matter during cancer treatment?

Good nutrition can help you feel stronger throughout your cancer journey. Eating well during treatment may help:

• Maintain your strength, energy, and a healthy weight.
• Support your immune system and help fight infection.
• Improve your tolerance of treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation.
• Promote healing and recovery.
• Improve your overall quality of life.

There's no single "cancer diet" or superfood that can cure cancer. Instead, an RDN can provide nutrition advice that's based on research and tailored to your specific treatment, symptoms, and goals.

The bottom line

Nutrition during cancer treatment doesn't have to be overwhelming. An RDN can help you sort through nutrition myths, manage treatment side effects, and create an eating plan that works for you.

Rather than chasing fad diets or miracle foods, you can focus on giving your body the nourishment it needs to support treatment and recovery.

Questions about nutrition during cancer treatment?

Nebraska Medicine cancer care services include registered dietitian nutritionists who specialize in helping people with cancer manage treatment side effects and maintain good nutrition throughout treatment and recovery.