CompleteLife Nutritional Counseling
Nutrition concerns, questions about diet, weight and symptom management are common among cancer patients. Nutritional counseling is provided by a registered dietician who helps patients identify their individual dietary needs, make dietary recommendations and answer general nutrition concerns. Following guidelines for healthful eating can help promote optimal healing and well-being, as well as prevent, delay or lessen the debilitating effects of malnutrition from cancer.
Eating well during cancer treatment is essential to preventing weight loss and maintaining strength. Cancer and/or treatment may adversely affect nutritional status. Malnutrition affects tissue function and repair, immune status and drug metabolism. Although people in active treatment for cancer often experience side effects and emotions that result in a loss of appetite, eating well generally helps people feel better and have more energy. Good nutrition complements all forms of cancer therapy. A cancer patient’s nutritional status has a direct correlation with quality of life, treatment tolerance and survival.
Comprehensive nutrition services are available to patients receiving treatment at the IU Simon Cancer Center. The nutritional status of the patient is assessed and symptoms that can compromise treatment are addressed proactively. Patients are followed throughout the course of treatment and nutritional status is continually assessed and appropriate counseling given depending on the changing needs of the patient.
Nutrition counseling and education can have a positive impact on not only physical, but psychological concerns for both patients and their families. Nutrition support can be immensely reassuring and comforting.
If you would like to make an appointment to speak with the registered dietitian, please notify your doctor or nurse. Or to schedule an appointment with a registered dietician, please call (317) 278-6663.
More information:
Eating Hints for Cancer Patients (National Cancer Institute)
Nutrition and Cancer Care (National Cancer Institute)
American Institute for Cancer Research – Information Services
My Pyramid.gov (United States Department of Agriculture)