Whether you experience these side effects will depend on many factors, including the type of cancer, the part of the body that was treated, and the type, duration, and dose of treatment. Some eating problems are caused by the treatment itself, but sometimes they are a result of the person feeling upset, worried or scared. While you are undergoing treatment for cancer, you should consult with a Nutritionist to make specific recommendations about adequate nutrition.

To obtain better nutrition, some general dietary recommendations can be followed, depending on the side effect:

Loss of Appetite: It is recommended to consume small and frequent meals. You should have snacks high in calories and protein within reach, to consume them when you feel hungry. Example: Turrialba Cheese or Peanut Butter with non-dairy Crackers, Low-fat Yogurt or Nuts.

Weightloss: It is recommended to follow the recommendations when there is loss of appetite.

Weight gain: It is important to notify the doctor because it can often be fluid retention (edema). Whether it is fluid retention or body weight gain, you should consult with the Nutritionist.

Mouth or Throat Irritation: You should consult your doctor to make sure it is not a dental problem. Eat soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow. Example: Some types of Smoothies, Bananas, Pureed or Canned Fruits, Nectars, Low-fat Yogurt, Mashed Potatoes, Macaroni in natural tomato sauce, Jellies, Flans with lactose-free and skim milk, Scrambled Eggs, Hot Cereals, Pureed Vegetables , Meat Purees etc.

Dryness in Mouth: It is recommended to take a sip of water every 5 or 10 minutes so you can swallow better. You should consume sweet or acidic drinks, such as lemonade, suck on candy, lollipops or chewing gum to produce more saliva. Sauces and dressings can be added to foods and consumed pureed to make them easier to swallow.

Changes in Taste and Smell: You may experience a bitter or metallic taste in foods, especially meats or other high-protein foods. Additionally, many foods may feel less flavorful. You should choose the most attractive foods to see and smell. If you do not want to consume beef or pork because of the flavor you feel, you can consume white meats such as poultry, fresh fish with little odor, eggs or dairy products. Foods can be marinated in sweet fruit juices, Italian dressing, or sweet and sour sauce. If you are experiencing discomfort from odors, it is recommended to serve food at room temperature.

Nausea and Vomiting: You should ask your doctor about medications called antiemetics that can help control nausea and vomiting. It is recommended to avoid foods high in fat, spicy, acidic, very sweet and with a strong smell. Less liquids should be taken with meals. Take small sips of liquids throughout the day.

Diarrhea: You should consult your doctor to identify the cause of diarrhea in order to treat it successfully. It is recommended to drink large amounts of fluids to replace lost water. Instead of eating three large meals, you should eat small meals throughout the day and avoid foods high in fat and irritants.

Constipation: It is recommended to drink at least 8 8-ounce glasses a day and consume foods high in fiber, such as: Whole Grain Breads and Cereals, Dried and Fresh Fruits with Skin, Fresh Vegetables, Potatoes with Skin, Beans, Beans and Chickpeas. It is important to consult your doctor beforehand since, depending on the treatment, some foods are excluded from the diet.

When cancer is diagnosed, it is very important to undergo appropriate treatment following the recommendations of the Doctor and Nutritionist.

High dose equipment such as the Linear Accelerator that the XXI Century Radiotherapy Medical Center, They allow radiosurgery doses to be delivered extremely accurately in the maximum periods indicated in these studies, achieving not only the expected cellular damage but also contributing to the patient's comfort by not being exposed to long periods of treatment as happens in other radiosurgery equipment.