Mesothelioma Nutrition Guide: Eating Well During and After Treatment

 

Living with mesothelioma presents unique challenges, especially when it comes to nutrition. Proper dietary choices can significantly impact your energy levels, treatment outcomes, and overall quality of life. This guide provides mesothelioma-specific nutrition advice to help patients navigate their journey with strength and resilience.

The Importance of Nutrition in Mesothelioma Care

Nutrition is a cornerstone of cancer care, particularly for mesothelioma patients who face significant dietary challenges due to the disease and its treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), one-third of all cancer deaths in the U.S. are associated with diet and exercise patterns, underscoring the critical role of nutrition in cancer management.

 

Mesothelioma can disrupt how the body processes nutrients, leading to symptoms like poor appetite, difficulty swallowing, and weight loss. Treatment side effects, including nausea, fatigue, and diarrhea, further complicate eating habits. However, a well-balanced diet can help:

 

• Prevent or resolve nutritional deficiencies.
• Maintain a healthy weight and preserve lean body mass.
• Minimize treatment-related side effects.
• Enhance overall well-being and quality of life.

 

Studies have found that a plant-based diet rich in fruits and vegetables, combined with moderate exercise, may reduce cancer recurrence. For mesothelioma patients, adopting these principles is crucial to lower the risk of recurrence and manage chronic conditions often associated with cancer survivorship.

Nutritional Goals for Mesothelioma Patients

The ACS outlines specific nutritional goals for cancer patients, which are especially relevant for those with mesothelioma:

 

• Prevent Nutritional Deficiencies: Ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals to support bodily functions.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Balance calorie intake to avoid unintended weight loss or gain, which can impact treatment efficacy.
• Preserve Lean Body Mass: Prioritize protein to maintain muscle mass, which is often depleted during cancer treatment.
• Reduce Side Effects: Choose foods that alleviate symptoms like nausea, diarrhea, or dry mouth.
• Improve Quality of Life: Use nutrition to boost energy and overall well-being.

 

Mesothelioma patients often require dietary adjustments that differ from general recommendations. For example, while most people are advised to limit dairy products like milk, cheese, and eggs, mesothelioma patients may need to increase their intake of these foods to meet heightened protein and calorie needs. Similarly, sauces and gravies, typically restricted in a standard diet, can help those struggling with chewing or swallowing—a common issue in pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lungs.

Mesothelioma-Specific Dietary Recommendations

While there is not a specific “mesothelioma diet”,  the ACS provides tailored nutrition guidelines for cancer survivors. These are particularly important for mesothelioma patients due to the disease’s aggressive nature and intensive treatments. These guidelines align with cancer prevention strategies but are even more critical for survivors to reduce the risk of recurrence and chronic diseases.

 

Foods to Prioritize

 

• Fruits and Vegetables: Aim for at least 2.5 cups daily, incorporating a variety at every meal and as snacks. Choose 100% fruit juices to avoid added sugars. Colorful options like berries (rich in resveratrol) and tomatoes (high in lycopene) offer phytonutrients that protect cells from damage.
• Whole Grains: Opt for whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat pasta over refined grains. Whole grains provide more fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting digestion and energy levels.
• Plant-Based Proteins: Include beans, lentils, nuts, and seeds to diversify protein sources and reduce reliance on meat. These foods are nutrient-dense and easier to digest for some patients.

 

Foods to Limit

 

• Processed and Red Meats: Avoid bacon, sausage, hot dogs, beef, pork, and lamb, which are linked to increased cancer risk. Substitute with fish, poultry, or plant-based proteins like tofu or beans.
• Alcohol: Alcohol can interfere with treatment and increase liver strain.
• Sugary Drinks and Processed Foods: Reduce intake of high-sugar beverages and ultra-processed foods to prevent obesity, a risk factor for cancer progression. High-calorie foods contribute to up to 20% of cancer-related mortality, according to the ACS.

 

Maintaining a healthy weight is a priority, as obesity can exacerbate mesothelioma outcomes. Familiarize yourself with food labels and portion sizes to make informed choices. For example, a “low-fat” label doesn’t always mean “low-calorie,” so check nutritional details carefully.

Addressing Common Eating Challenges in Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma’s location—whether in the pleura (lungs), peritoneum (abdomen), or pericardium (heart)—and its treatments create unique nutritional hurdles. Below are common issues and solutions tailored for mesothelioma patients:

 

1. Loss of Appetite

 

• Cause: Treatment side effects like nausea, early satiety from pleural effusions, or fatigue.
• Solutions: Eat small, frequent meals every 2-3 hours instead of three large ones. Use liquid meal replacements or high-calorie snacks like peanut butter or nuts. Light physical activity, such as walking, can stimulate appetite if approved by your healthcare team.

 

2. Difficulty Swallowing

 

• Cause: Tumors, radiation, or surgery affecting the throat or esophagus.
• Solutions: Choose soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, or scrambled eggs. Use a straw for liquids and pureed meals. Avoid rough, dry foods like crackers or granola, which can irritate the throat.

 

3. Nausea and Vomiting

 

• Cause: Chemotherapy, radiation, or tumor pressure.
• Solutions: Opt for bland foods like white toast, crackers, or plain yogurt at room temperature to reduce irritation. Sip clear fluids like ginger tea between meals, avoiding large amounts during meals to prevent bloating. Don’t eat favorite foods during nausea to avoid developing aversions.

 

4. Diarrhea

 

• Cause: Chemotherapy, radiation, or nutrient malabsorption.
• Solutions: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or sports drinks, to replace lost fluids. Eat low-fiber foods like white rice, bananas, or applesauce, and avoid high-fiber foods (e.g., beans, raw vegetables), greasy foods, milk products, and alcohol.

 

5. Dry Mouth

 

• Cause: Radiation to the head and neck, certain medications, or dehydration.
• Solutions: Keep a water bottle handy for frequent sips. Chew sugar-free gum or suck on ice chips to stimulate saliva. Moisten foods with broth, sauces, or gravies, and avoid alcohol and tobacco, which can worsen dryness.

 

6. Weight Loss

 

• Cause: Increased metabolism, poor appetite, or early satiety.
• Solutions: Eat high-calorie, high-protein foods like milkshakes, smoothies, or nut butters at every meal, even if not hungry. Add calorie-dense ingredients like butter or cream to dishes. Snack on nuts or cheese between meals.

 

For personalized advice, consult a registered dietitian, ideally one certified in oncology nutrition (CSO). They can tailor a plan to address your specific mesothelioma symptoms and treatment side effects. Visit eatright.org to find a dietitian near you.

Nutrition Strategies to Support Mesothelioma Management

Embrace a Plant-Based Diet

 

Plant-based diets, such as the Mediterranean or DASH diet, are highly beneficial for mesothelioma patients. These diets emphasize:

 

• Filling two-thirds of your plate with vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and beans.
• Consuming phytonutrients—natural compounds in plant foods like lycopene (tomatoes) and resveratrol (berries)—that protect cells from damage and may reduce cancer risk.

 

Stay Active

 

The American Institute for Cancer Research recommends 150-300 minutes of moderate activity weekly for cancer prevention, with at least 90 minutes for those in active treatment. Light activities like walking can combat fatigue, stimulate appetite, and improve mood. Always consult your healthcare team before starting any exercise program.

 

Prioritize Hydration

 

Dehydration is a common risk for mesothelioma patients due to diarrhea, vomiting, or dry mouth. Aim for eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily, and include hydrating foods like soups, fruits, and gelatin. Clear fluids like broth or sports drinks can help replenish sodium and potassium lost during diarrhea.

 

Practice Food Safety

 

Mesothelioma patients often have weakened immune systems, making them more susceptible to foodborne illnesses. Follow these USDA/FDA guidelines:

 

• Wash hands and produce thoroughly before eating.
• Cook meats to safe temperatures: 160°F for beef and 180°F for poultry.
• Avoid unpasteurized dairy, deli meats, and buffet foods.
• Refrigerate perishables promptly to prevent bacterial growth.

 

Post-Treatment Nutrition for Mesothelioma Survivors

After completing treatment, some side effects like taste changes, swallowing difficulties, or dry mouth may linger. Continue focusing on a nutrient-rich diet:

 

• Include a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to ensure a broad spectrum of vitamins and phytonutrients.
• Limit red and processed meats, sugary drinks, and highly processed foods.
• Avoid or minimize alcohol consumption to reduce strain on the liver and lower cancer recurrence risk.

 

Work with your dietitian to address any weight changes—whether loss or gain—that occurred during treatment. Maintaining a healthy weight post-treatment is key to long-term health and reducing the risk of recurrence.

Additional Tips for Mesothelioma Patients

• Prepare in Advance: Cook and freeze meals in portion-sized containers when energy levels are high to ensure healthy options during fatigue.
• Enhance Flavors: If taste changes occur, experiment with herbs and spices to make meals more appealing. For example, add fresh basil to soups or lemon zest to fish.
• Track Intake: Keep a food diary to monitor what you eat, portion sizes, and how foods affect your symptoms. Share this with your healthcare team to identify patterns and make adjustments.
• Seek Support: Enlist family or friends to help with grocery shopping and meal prep, especially during treatment-intensive periods.
• Focus on Nutrient Density: Choose foods that pack a nutritional punch, such as avocados for healthy fats, eggs for protein, and leafy greens for vitamins. This ensures you’re getting maximum benefits even if your appetite is limited.
• Experiment with Textures: If swallowing is an issue, try blending foods into smoothies or soups. For dry mouth, incorporate moist foods like stews or casseroles to make eating easier.
• Mindful Eating: Eat slowly and in a calm environment to aid digestion and reduce nausea. Avoid distractions like TV during meals to focus on your body’s signals.

Conclusion

Nutrition is a vital tool for mesothelioma patients to support their treatment, manage symptoms, and improve their quality of life. By focusing on a plant-based diet, addressing eating challenges, and prioritizing food safety, you can take control of your health journey.

 

Contact us here at Unbreakable Journeys for more detailed information about mesothelioma nutrition resources and diet options.