Complete nutritional Guide in Radiotherapy

The Role of Nutrition During Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is a localized treatment that uses radiation to destroy cancer cells. While effective, it also affects healthy tissues in the targeted area, which can lead to local side effects such as skin inflammation, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, digestive issues, or difficulty swallowing. Proper nutrition is essential to support the body’s healing, maintain energy levels, and reduce the impact of side effects on quality of life.

Nutritional Goals During Radiotherapy

The goal is to provide the body with the nutrients necessary for healing the tissues affected by radiation, maintaining muscle strength, preventing weight loss, and supporting the immune system. Nutrition should be balanced, gentle on the digestive system, and tailored to the symptoms and needs of each patient, depending on the area being treated (abdomen, pelvis, head and neck, chest, etc.).

NUTRITIONAL PLAN

Are you battling cancer and unsure what to eat? We can help with accurate, practical advice and a personalized diet tailored to your condition and preferences. Email us at clinica@diabet-si-nutritie.ro or purchase your plan directly HERE and we will get back to you.

Small, Frequent, and Well-Tolerated Meals

To avoid digestive overload and reduce nausea or early satiety, it is recommended to eat 5–6 small meals per day. Portions should be moderate, simply prepared (steamed, boiled, baked), and the texture should match tolerance (softer if the head and neck are irradiated, higher in fiber if the pelvis is treated).

Protein – The Foundation of Cellular Repair

Radiotherapy destroys not only cancer cells but also healthy cells in the treatment area. Protein is essential for tissue repair and maintaining the immune system. Recommended sources include eggs, lean meat (turkey, chicken), fish, plain yogurt, cottage cheese, lentils, chickpeas, tofu, and well-tolerated protein shakes. Protein should be included in every meal.

Healthy Fats – Energy and Anti-Inflammatory Support

During periods of low appetite, healthy fats provide concentrated energy. Extra virgin olive oil, mashed avocado, nuts, ground flax and chia seeds, and plant-based butters (almond or peanut) are easy to incorporate. Fried fats, margarine, and processed foods with trans fats should be avoided, as they may increase inflammation.

Complex Carbohydrates – Energy Without Spikes

The body needs energy to cope with the physiological stress caused by radiotherapy. Ideal sources include oats, brown rice, sweet potatoes, buckwheat, puréed legumes, and baked fruits. Refined sugar, pastries, sugary drinks, and processed cereals should be avoided due to their potential to promote inflammation and cause blood sugar fluctuations.

Fruits and Vegetables – A Natural Antioxidant Shield

Antioxidants support healthy cells and neutralize free radicals generated during radiotherapy. Steamed vegetables (carrots, zucchini, pumpkin, spinach, beets) and baked or stewed fruits (apples, pears, plums, bananas) are the easiest to tolerate. Berries, if well tolerated, provide excellent amounts of vitamin C and polyphenols. In cases of mouth irritation or reflux, citrus fruits and raw tomatoes should be avoided.

Fiber – Digestive Balance Depending on the Treatment Area

If radiotherapy targets the abdominal or pelvic area, diarrhea or constipation may occur. Fiber should be adjusted accordingly:
– Constipation: oats, prunes, flaxseeds, cooked vegetables, and adequate hydration are recommended
– Diarrhea: avoid raw fiber and choose white rice, boiled carrots, banana, and strained soups

Hydration – Essential for Detoxification and Recovery

Radiation can cause dry mucous membranes, fatigue, and a risk of dehydration. A daily intake of 1.5–2 liters of fluids is recommended: plain water, mild herbal teas (chamomile, linden, mint), clear soups, and unsweetened stewed fruit juice. Excessive coffee, carbonated beverages, and sugary drinks should be avoided. In cases of dry mouth, sucking on ice chips or drinking water with cucumber or lemon slices may help.

Key Micronutrients During Radiotherapy

Vitamins C, E, A, D, zinc, and selenium support cellular protection, immune function, and healing. Foods rich in these nutrients (eggs, leafy green vegetables, berries, fish, seeds, and fermented dairy) should be part of the daily diet. Supplementation should only be done with the approval of the oncologist to avoid interfering with treatment.

Foods to Avoid During Radiotherapy

Avoid greasy and fried foods, processed meats (cold cuts, smoked products), sugar, spicy or very acidic foods, carbonated drinks, alcohol, ultra-processed products, and any food that causes digestive or oral discomfort.

Gentle Daily Menu Example During Radiotherapy

Breakfast: oatmeal with plant milk, ripe banana, chia seeds
Snack: baked apple with a spoon of almond butter
Lunch: carrot and pumpkin cream soup, turkey breast with sweet potato purée
Snack: plain yogurt with pumpkin seeds
Dinner: rice with boiled zucchini and steamed white fish
Before bed: warm chamomile tea and a few soaked almonds

Adapting Nutrition to the Treated Area

– Head and Neck: recommended foods include purées, cream soups, thick smoothies, avoiding citrus and spices
– Abdomen and Pelvis: avoid dairy and raw or fibrous foods in case of diarrhea; increase fluid intake
– Chest: avoid foods that cause reflux or heartburn; eat small, light meals

NUTRITIONAL PLAN

Are you battling cancer and unsure what to eat? We can help with accurate, practical advice and a personalized diet tailored to your condition and preferences. Email us at clinica@diabet-si-nutritie.ro or purchase your plan directly HERE and we will get back to you.

Lifestyle and Emotional Support

Along with nutrition, rest, gentle movement (walking, mindful breathing, stretching), and emotional support are essential for recovery. A calm atmosphere during meals, a consistent daily rhythm, and support from loved ones can transform eating into a deeply healing experience.

Even though the treatment is demanding, gentle and nourishing nutrition becomes a daily tool for support. Each meal is an opportunity to strengthen the body, mind, and hope.

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