VEGETARIAN DIETS DURING CANCER TREATMENT

A vegetarian diet can be both safe and beneficial for people undergoing cancer treatment, provided they know how to make appropriate food choices. As with any diet for people with special medical problems, the consumer should talk to a registered dietitian knowledgeable about the food plan.

A recent article in Vegetarian Journal by Donna Paglia, M.S., R.D., gave introductory information for planning a vegetarian diet that will satisfy the special nutritional needs of the cancer patient.

Often during cancer treatment the patient experiences decreased appetite, feeling of fullness, nausea, loss of taste, and a sore mouth. During cancer treatment you may be counseled on a diet that is high in both calories and protein in order to meet the body's increased demands, as well as to maximize the value of a reduced volume of food. Small, frequent high calorie snacks may be helpful.

Quick and easy high calorie snacks for the lacto-ovo vegetarian are yogurts, puddings, custards, cheese, crackers, fruit, and creamed vegetable soups. The vegan can try fruit shakes, non-dairy frozen desserts, soy yogurts, chunky vegetable soups, and bagels.

For those with an increased sense of strong or bitter tastes, the mild flavor of some soy products can be a welcome change. If taste blindness is a problem, using marinades and seasonings for tofu and tempeh can enhance the flavor.

For a copy of the three-page Vegetarian Diets During Cancer Treatment with a sample of Vegetarian Journal, send $3 to The Vegetarian Resource Group, P.O. Box 1463, Baltimore, MD 21203.

The Vegetarian Resource Group is a non-profit organization which educates the public about vegetarianism (abstinence of meat, fish, and fowl). Vegans are vegetarians who do not consume other animal products such as dairy or eggs. For more information on vegetarianism, check out the VRG web site: http://vrg.org

� 1996- The Vegetarian Resource Group PO Box 1463, Baltimore, MD 21203 (410) 366-8343   Email: [email protected]
Last Updated September 20, 1997	Graphic design by
The contents of this web site, as with all The Vegetarian Resource Group publications, is not intended to provide personal medical advice. Medical advice should be obtained from a qualified health professional. Any pages on this site may be reproduced for non-commercial use if left intact and with credit given to The Vegetarian Resource Group. Web site questions or comments? Please email [email protected].