Eating during chemotherapy can feel like one more challenge at a time when your body and energy are already working overtime. But nourishing yourself—gently and consistently—can make a real difference in how you feel, how your body copes with treatment, and how well you recover.
The good news? You don’t have to eat perfectly during chemo to eat well. Small, thoughtful choices can help you manage side effects, maintain strength, and support your overall well-being. Here’s our guide on foods to eat (and avoid) during cancer treatment.
Understand the basics
Chemotherapy can affect appetite, digestion, and taste, so it’s often easier to eat smaller, more frequent meals instead of three large ones. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), pairing high-protein foods with meals and drinking fluids between—not during—meals can help you get the most nutrition without feeling too full too quickly.
During cancer treatment, it’s important to focus on foods that are both nutrient-dense and easy to digest, and aim to stay hydrated throughout the day with water, broths, and herbal teas. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center recommends including a source of protein at every meal to help your body recover and maintain strength through treatment.
Chemotherapy also places extra demands on the body. Choosing foods that help repair tissue, support your immune system, and sustain energy can make a big impact.
What might be helpful to avoid during chemotherapy
During chemotherapy, it’s helpful to limit food items that can make side effects worse or add stress to your system. The American Cancer Society (ACS) suggests emphasizing plant-based, whole foods and reducing red and processed meats to support long-term health and recovery.
Food and drink that experts recommend to reducing or eliminating during cancer treatment include:
- Highly processed or fried foods
- Excess added sugars
- Alcohol
- Large amounts of caffeine
Pro tips for managing side effects with food
Everyone’s experience with chemotherapy foods is different. What feels good one day might not the next. Being flexible—and gentle with yourself—can go a long way.
Bookmark these tips:
- Nausea: Eat bland, cool, or room-temperature foods like toast, bananas, or smoothies. Ginger tea may also help.
- Mouth sores: Choose soft, moist foods such as yogurt, soups, or pureed fruits, and avoid acidic or spicy options.
- Taste changes: If foods taste metallic, try using plastic utensils or adding lemon juice, herbs, or marinades to brighten flavors.
- Loss of appetite: Keep high-protein snacks or smoothies handy. Even a few bites every couple of hours can make a difference.
The National Cancer Institute’s Eating Hints guide also includes simple recipes and ideas to manage these day-to-day changes.
Simplify mealtime with support
Preparing meals can take more energy than you have on certain days—and that’s completely okay. If friends or family ask how they can help, one of the most meaningful things you can do is let them handle the cooking chemotherapy friendly foods for you.
Something like a meal train allows loved ones to support you in a tangible, nourishing way. It can take the pressure off grocery shopping and daily meal prep while ensuring you still have wholesome, comforting food ready when you need it. This blog outlines seven helpful tips for those looking to set one up or guide others in doing so.
We’re always here to support you, too. If you have questions or need personalized guidance, contact us. We’re here to help you and those who care for you navigate this journey with clarity and compassion.
