As a dietitian working in oncology care, Registered Dietitian, Melanie Mitchell, is often asked, “What foods should I avoid while on chemotherapy?”
When appetite is poor and symptoms such as nausea and changes in taste are present, it can be difficult to feel interested in food at all. For this reason, I keep the list of “foods to avoid” as short as possible—because eating something is almost always better than eating nothing.
It’s also important to note that different treatments, cancer types, and individual circumstances create unique nutrition challenges. For personalized guidance, I encourage you to seek the advice of a registered dietitian. In the meantime, below are general food safety and tolerance considerations for people receiving chemotherapy.
During chemotherapy, your immune system may be weakened, increasing the risk of foodborne illness. To reduce this risk:
Grapefruit and grapefruit juice contain compounds that interfere with the metabolism of several chemotherapy and cancer-related medications. For this reason, grapefruit should be avoided during chemotherapy unless your care team confirms it is safe.
Fried and greasy foods (such as hamburgers, French fries, and chicken fingers) are not harmful, but they can be difficult to digest during chemotherapy. These foods may worsen symptoms such as bloating, gas, indigestion, or diarrhea. If you’re craving fried foods, consider starting with a half portion. This can help satisfy the craving while minimizing digestive discomfort.
Spicy foods are also not harmful, but they may irritate a sensitive mouth or throat and can contribute to indigestion or mouth pain. If spicy flavors are appealing—especially if they are among the few flavors you can taste—start with a small amount to see how well you tolerate them before eating a full serving.
Raw fruits and vegetables are nutritious but can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly.
If you have questions about which foods are best for you during your cancer journey, please ask your physician for a referral to schedule an appointment with Melanie Mitchell, CPN Registered Dietitian.
The holiday season can be a busy time—and it can also make it challenging to stick to your healthy eating habits. With a little mindfulness and a few simple strategies, you can enjoy the season without losing sight of your health.
Here are some practical tips to help you stay balanced and energized:
Healthy eating during the holidays doesn’t mean missing out—it means making mindful choices that help you feel your best.
Staying well-hydrated during your cancer treatment is extremely important. Fluid losses through sweat, vomiting, diarrhea, or other circumstances can result in dehydration quickly. You may become dehydrated before you experience any symptoms of dehydration. Symptoms include thirst, dizziness, dark-color urine, and headaches. Preventing dehydration will not only make you feel better but also help avoid any serious situations that would require medical attention. A general goal is 8-10 cups of caffeine-free fluid daily unless you are experiencing diarrhea, vomiting or excessive sweating, in which case you may require more fluid and electrolytes.
Strategies to Avoid Dehydration
Below are suggestions for electrolyte replacement beverages.
| Product | Calories | Sodium | Potassium | Vitamins |
| Liquid IV (packet) | 45 | 500 mg | 370 mg | B vitamins |
| Nuun Sport (tab) | 15 | 300 mg | 150 mg | Mild Flavor |
| Pedialyte (packet) | 50 | 540 mg | 380 mg | |
| Protein2O (bottle) | 80 | 220 mg | 110 mg | 15 g protein |
| Ensure Clear (bottle) | 180 | 70 mg | minimal | 8 g protein |
Thirst Quenching Watermelon Salad
3 Tablespoons Lime Juice 3 cups cubed cucumber
1 cup sliced Red Onion 1 ounce Feta Cheese Crumbled
15 cups cubed Watermelon ¼ cup chopped Mint Leaves
Marinate the onions in the lime juice while cubing watermelon and cucumber. Combine all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix well. Place the salad in the fridge for 1 hour to combine all the flavors. Enjoy!
