| | Cancer Nutrition & Symptom Management
Contact
Paula Przywojski, RD, CD
Gundersen Lutheran Cancer registered dietitian
(608) 775-2385 or (800) 362-9567, ext. 52385
Email: cancerctr@gundluth.org
The Cancer Center nutritionist is available to see patient's or family members during your cancer treatment or during an appointment with your doctor. If you are having any nutritional problems or concerns during your cancer treatment and have not seen the dietitian, please call the phone number listed above.
Your diet is an important part of your treatment for cancer.
 People who eat well and maintain their weight during cancer treatment are better able to cope with side effects and recover from surgery. A healthy diet helps maintain strength, prevents body tissue from breaking down, rebuilds tissue and maintains your defenses against infection.
Nutritional guidelines for cancer patients differ from conventional suggestions for healthy eating because they are intended to build strength and help you withstand the effects of cancer and its treatment. Instead of reducing fats and increasing fruits, vegetables and whole grain products, a healthy diet for a cancer patient may focus on high calorie, protein-rich foods. Cancer patients may at times be encouraged to consume more milk, cream, cheese, and cooked eggs. You may be advised to prepare sauces and gravies and cook with more butter, margarine or oil.
Your nutrient needs may change depending on the type of therapy you are receiving and your body’s response to it. The information in this web site will help you select and prepare food in ways that will help you cope with side effects which can be barriers to good nutrition. Your registered dietitian is available to answer your questions and show you how to meet daily calorie and protein goals–even on days when you don’t have much appetite.
Nutritional recommendations during cancer therapies may include:
- High calories
- High protein
- Texture modifications
- Elimination of high fiber foods
- Elimination of other foods which aggravate side effects
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