Nutrition is vitally important to keeping you healthy as a co-survivor. Eating well can help you feel better, have more energy, and be a better caregiver. For nutrition tips and recipes, click here for Forge’s videos with Laura Rutledge, MA, RDN, CSO, who specializes in oncology nutrition during and after cancer diagnosis and treatment at St. Vincent’s Bruno Cancer Center in Birmingham, AL
Here are some other tips:
- Start your day with a good breakfast. Try to include at least 1/3 of your protein requirements in this meal, such as eggs or lean meats. Unlike carbohydrates (toast or cereal), protein provides you with long lasting energy and will help you keep your energy throughout the day.
- Eat a variety of foods. Variety not only makes what you eat more interesting but allows your body to get the different nutrients it needs. For instance, if you eat many servings of the same fruit day after day, you may not be getting all the nutrients that you need. It is important to focus on your overall dietary pattern, not a specific food.
- Eat plenty of iron rich foods, like lean red meats, poultry, dark green vegetables and dried fruits.
- Get some exercise, if able. Being physically active can help improve feelings of fatigue. Light exercise can also improve appetite.
- Avoid caffeine and white or refined sugars (cookies, cake or candy). While these products are OK in moderation (they may even give you a quick boost!), they tend to cause a rapid rise and fall in your blood sugar and will leave you more tired.
- Stay hydrated. Dehydration can make you feel more fatigued.
Useful videos:
This information was shared by Forge partner and Registered Dietician Nutritionist Laura Rutledge, MA, RDN, CSO, who specializes in oncology nutrition during and after cancer diagnosis and treatment at St. Vincent’s Bruno Cancer Center in Birmingham, AL. For specific recipes aimed at cancer prevention and treatment, visit her website, Nourishing Plate: https://www.nourishingplate.com/
If you have any questions or concerns, contact Forge’s Client Services Coordinator, Janet Dees, at (205) 990-5367 or [email protected]. Si hablas español y quieres más información, por favor contacta a Yadira Robayna, al (205) 990-5375 O al [email protected].