Introduction
Food becomes one of the biggest sources of anxiety after a cancer diagnosis. Patients and caregivers are often confused by conflicting advice from relatives, the internet, and social media. Many are told to stop eating certain foods completely—sometimes even nutritious foods—out of fear that they may worsen cancer or interfere with treatment.
Dr. Rahul, Consultant Uro-Oncologist in Bhubaneswar, addresses these widespread myths and explains the real role of nutrition during cancer treatment, including chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery. His approach focuses on balanced nutrition, moderation, and patient comfort, rather than strict or unnecessary dietary restrictions.
Watch: Dr. Rahul Explains Cancer Diet Myths & Nutrition Facts
Dr. Rahul clearly explains what cancer patients should and should not eat during treatment, and why proper nutrition plays a crucial role in recovery and treatment tolerance.
👉 Watch the video here:
Why Nutrition Is More Important During Cancer Treatment
Cancer treatment significantly increases the body’s nutritional demands. Cancer cells consume more energy and protein than normal cells, which can quickly lead to nutritional deficiency if diet is inadequate.
Poor nutrition during treatment can result in:
Severe weakness and fatigue
Loss of muscle mass
Poor immunity
Difficulty tolerating chemotherapy or radiation
Delayed wound healing after surgery
👉 Adequate nutrition helps patients stay stronger, recover faster, and complete treatment with fewer complications.
Protein: The Foundation of Cancer Nutrition
Protein is the most critical nutrient during cancer treatment. It helps:
Preserve muscle strength
Repair tissues damaged by chemotherapy or radiation
Support immune function
Reduce weakness and treatment-related fatigue
Best Protein Sources for Cancer Patients
Dr. Rahul recommends high-quality, easily digestible protein, such as:
Chicken and fish (lean meats)
Eggs
Dal (lentils and pulses)
Dal: A Commonly Misunderstood Food
Many people believe dal is “not enough” protein. This is a myth.
👉 Dal is an excellent plant-based protein, especially when consumed regularly as part of an Indian diet. It is affordable, nutritious, and easy to digest for most patients.
Traditional Odisha Diet: Naturally Nutritious
Dr. Rahul emphasizes that the traditional Odisha diet is already well-balanced and suitable for most cancer patients.
A typical meal includes:
Rice – provides energy
Dal – offers protein
Vegetables – supply vitamins, minerals, and fiber
Fish or chicken – adds high-quality protein
👉 When eaten in moderation, this traditional diet meets both protein and calorie requirements during cancer treatment.
Calories Matter: Avoid Under-Eating
Many patients eat too little due to fear or appetite loss. While excessive sugar should be avoided, completely cutting calories is harmful.
Key Points
Avoid junk food and refined sugar
Do not starve the body
Choose nutrient-dense, clean foods
Calories are essential to maintain strength
👉 Weight loss during treatment can weaken the body and affect outcomes.
Foods to Limit, Not Eliminate
Mutton
High in protein but also high in fat
Excess fat intake may disturb hormonal balance
Best consumed occasionally rather than regularly
👉 Moderation is the key—not complete avoidance.
Are Sour Foods, Curd, and Non-Veg Allowed?
There is no medical rule that cancer patients must avoid:
Curd
Lemon
Sour foods
Chicken or fish
These foods are safe unless they cause individual digestive discomfort, such as acidity, bloating, or nausea.
👉 Avoid foods only if your body does not tolerate them—not because of myths.
Managing Appetite Loss During Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy drugs commonly cause:
Reduced appetite
Nausea and vomiting
Taste changes
Practical Dietary Tips
Eat small meals every 2–3 hours
Choose calorie-dense, soft foods
Eat foods that feel comfortable
Avoid heavy, oily, or gas-producing foods
👉 Eating small amounts frequently is often better than forcing large meals.
Steroids, Appetite & Weight Gain
Steroids used during cancer treatment can:
Increase hunger
Cause water retention
Raise blood sugar levels
👉 Weight gain caused by steroids is often temporary and artificial, and does not always indicate improved nutrition.
Fiber & Hydration: Often Overlooked
Constipation is a common problem during cancer treatment due to medications and reduced physical activity.
Include:
Vegetables
Fruits (as tolerated)
Adequate water
👉 Fiber improves digestion, while hydration helps prevent discomfort and constipation.
Avoid Stressful & Restrictive Diets
Strict food rules can:
Increase emotional stress
Reduce food enjoyment
Lead to poor nutrition
Dr. Rahul advises patients to eat with confidence and comfort, rather than fear.
Consult a Dietitian for Personalized Advice
Every cancer patient is different. A dietitian can:
Create a customized diet chart
Adjust food based on treatment side effects
Ensure adequate protein and calorie intake
👉 Professional guidance is always better than advice from non-medical sources.
Key Takeaways
Cancer treatment increases protein and calorie needs
Dal, eggs, fish, and chicken are excellent protein sources
Traditional Indian diets are naturally balanced
Avoid unnecessary food bans
Eat what your body tolerates
Small, frequent meals work best
Emotional well-being matters during treatment
Conclusion
According to Dr. Rahul, there is no universal cancer diet restriction. The best approach is a balanced, moderate, nutrient-rich diet that supports the body through treatment.
By avoiding myths, focusing on quality nutrition, and seeking professional guidance, cancer patients can improve treatment tolerance, maintain strength, and enjoy a better quality of life during their cancer journey.