If you or someone close to you is about to start chemotherapy, you may be wondering what can be done to limit the side effects. While chemotherapy can be an incredibly effective treatment for cancer, it can also cause unpleasant side effects like nausea, fatigue, and hair loss. But there are a few things that can help ease these symptoms and make your treatment more tolerable. Here are some foods to get you started.
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Oatmeal.
Rolled oats are a whole food high in fiber. This means they can help fight fatigue by giving you energy. As they can combat constipation, which is a common side effect of chemotherapy. Rolled oats can help soothe your stomach and reduce nausea. To get the most out of oatmeal, try adding fresh fruit or honey to sweeten it. You can also add a little milk or cream to make it more nutritious.
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Salmon.
The high levels of omega-3 fatty acids in salmon help limit the side effects of chemotherapy, such as nausea, fatigue, and hair loss. Also, salmon helps improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy drugs. Studies have shown that patients who eat salmon during their treatment have better results than those who do not.
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Broccoli.
Broccoli is rich in a compound called sulforaphane, which has been shown to protect cells from damage. It also helps stimulate the production of enzymes that detoxify the body and eliminate harmful chemicals. Additionally, broccoli is a good source of antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation.
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Spinach.
The study, which was conducted on rats, found that those who received spinach juice before chemotherapy had fewer gastrointestinal complaints than those who did not receive the treatment. Researchers believe that the antioxidants in spinach help protect the gut from the damaging effects of chemotherapy.
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Blueberries.
A compound in blueberries, pterostilbene, has been shown to protect cells from damage caused by oxidative stress, which is a common side effect of chemotherapy. Additionally, pterostilbene helps promote the production of new blood vessels, which may counteract the negative effects of chemotherapy on the circulatory system. Additionally, blueberries contain compounds that help boost the immune system. This can be useful in combating the side effects of chemotherapy.
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Garlic.
Garlic has long been used as a traditional remedy for nausea. Recent studies have shown that it may be effective in reducing chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. Also, garlic is believed to help boost the immune system. Making it an ideal supplement for cancer patients undergoing treatment.
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Almonds.
Almonds are a good source of antioxidants, and they also contain vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. Research has shown that eating a handful of almonds each day can help reduce chemotherapy-related nausea and vomiting. Almonds are also a good source of energy, which can be useful for tired people. Also, the protein in almonds can help preserve muscle mass during treatment.
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Sweet potatoes.
This is because sweet potatoes are rich in a type of antioxidant known as carotenoids, which have been shown to protect cells from damage caused by chemotherapy drugs. Plus, sweet potatoes are a great source of fiber, which can help reduce nausea and diarrhea, two common side effects of chemotherapy.
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Green tea.
Green tea has been shown to help reduce the side effects of chemotherapy by inhibiting the release of certain chemicals in the body that contribute to these effects. Also, the antioxidants found in green tea help boost the immune system. This can help the body fight infections better.
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Ginger.
Ginger is a home remedy that can be helpful in treating nausea and vomiting. It is known that ginger can also help relieve fatigue and neuropathy. You can take ginger in capsules or powder, drink ginger tea, or chew fresh ginger root. If you’re undergoing chemotherapy, ask your doctor if ginger might be right for you.
