Treatment for Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia can be a gruelling experience. As the immune system responds to both the disease and ensuing treatment, it uses vast amounts of energy that can leave patients with what feels like unending exhaustion. It’s hard to replenish your energy levels when nausea or a lack of appetite make it difficult to eat and other side effects keep you from getting a good night’s sleep.
As difficult as it can be, eating a balanced diet — that’s rich in calories and protein — is vital before, during and after treatment. Eating properly won’t just give you more energy, it will improve your body’s ability to deal with side effects, fight infection, recover more quickly from treatment and lower your chances of developing other issues.
What should you eat?
Fruits and vegetables — Fruits and vegetables are rich in nutrients and minerals and should be a key part of your diet, according to Blood Cancer UK. Bananas are loaded with natural sugar, providing a quick injection of sustained energy when needed most. Berries, such as strawberries, blueberries and raspberries, are essential sources of antioxidants, which help generate energy at a cellular level. On the vegetable side of your plate, dark, leafy greens will help support a healthy immune system and yams and potatoes offer carbohydrates that your body can convert into energy.
Protein — Eating protein gives your body a long-term energy boost by helping repair and rebuild any tissues damaged during the course of treatment. Some good options are lean meats, fish, legumes, eggs, dairy, nuts and soy products.
Whole grains — Foods containing whole grains provide the carbohydrates your body needs to produce energy. A few good sources are whole grain pasta, whole wheat bread, brown rice and oatmeal.
Healthy fats — Fat may seem like a questionable addition to a healthy diet but healthy fats hold an abundance of calories that make them a good energy source, according to the Canadian Cancer Society. Unsaturated fats, such as those found in nuts, oily fish and vegetable oils, are good options.
More food for thought
Eat small but frequent meals — Consuming a larger number of small meals throughout the day (instead of three large meals) is recommended for CML patients because smaller portions are more easily tolerated by the body. This schedule is more likely to provide you with sustained energy and reduced feelings of nausea.
Stay hydrated — It’s important to drink plenty of water as many forms of cancer treatment leave patients feeling dehydrated. According to the National Cancer Institute, staying hydrated, particularly on days when you are struggling to eat, will ease nausea and help make you feel better. Avoid caffeinated beverages as they may exacerbate certain symptoms (acid reflux, diarrhea) and drinks that contain sugar, such as fruit juice or soda.
A clean slate — Cancer therapy weakens your immune system and increases the likelihood of suffering from a food-related illness. The best way to avoid this is to keep your counters, utensils and hands as clean as possible before preparing a meal. Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly and change dish cloths and towels frequently to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.