Lymphoma is the general term for cancer in the lymphatic system. The lymphatic system helps keep you well. When you have lymphoma, your body's defence gets weak and can't fight infections well. This may make you feel tired, lose weight, and have swollen lymph nodes. Eating right is key in this fight. In this article, we will look at why food groups matter when you have lymphoma and easy tips on what to avoid and what you can eat. By picking the right food, people can help their treatment work well.
There are two types of lymphoma: Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Both of these types come from a type of white blood cell known as a lymphocyte. This cell helps fight infections, but when these cells grow out of control, tumours can be formed, and lymph nodes can spread throughout the body.
The treatments for lymphoma can affect the body in so many different ways. Going through chemotherapy and radiation will make a person feel tired, nauseous and with little to no appetite. Certain treatments can damage the digestive system, making it harder to absorb nutrients properly. This shows that nutrition should be carefully managed for it to help support the body during the treatments.1
During lymphoma treatment, patients should consider what their nutritional intake is like. Having good nutrition can boost energy levels, maintain a healthy weight and reduce the chance of infection.
Lymphoma can make you have a weaker immune system. Protecting your body and recovering quickly after treatment can happen by having good nutrition. The right kind of food can also make it easier to manage side effects. In some cases, during treatment, a person can lose weight due to a reduced appetite, while others may gain weight because of medications. Overall, a healthy diet can handle these new changes.2
Here are some of the main nutrients and food groups to include in a lymphoma-friendly diet:
Protein: This can help with fixing body tissues and supporting the immune system. Protein sources examples are lean meat, poultry, eggs, beans, lentils, tofu, yoghurt and nuts.2
Carbohydrates: This provides energy. It's best to go with whole grain options such as brown rice, oats and whole grain bread. These options also give fibre, which works well for digestion.2
Healthy Fats: This is good for giving energy and absorbing vitamins. Examples include avocado, olive oil, fatty fish such as salmon and nuts.2
Vitamins and Minerals: Nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins help with energy levels and immune support. Leafy greens, fruits, whole grains, and dairy are good sources.2
Vitamin D: With lymphoma, it's common to have low levels of vitamin D. To help this, taking in more sunlight and having foods such as oily fish and eggs can help.2
Hydration: It's important to drink enough fluids. Some good choices are water, herbal teas and soups. If a person is losing fluids, it may be a good idea to have electrolyte drinks.2
While it’s important to focus on healthy foods, there are also some that should be limited or avoided:
Sugary and Processed Foods: These don't have much nutrition, and they can make a person gain weight.3
Raw or Undercooked Foods: For low immunity, it's best not to have raw fish, undercooked eggs and unwashed vegetables. This way you can prevent infections.4
Foods That Interact with Medications: Some foods can interfere with medications that are taken for cancer. It’s important to ask a doctor or dietitian what not to eat.5
Treatments can make it hard to eat normally. Here are some problems and tips:
Nausea: Eating small, bland meals is the best way to deal with this. Crackers, toast, and plain rice can help.6
Mouth Sores or Sore Throat: When experiencing this, it's easier to eat soft foods such as yoghurt and smoothies. Spicy and acidic food should be avoided.6
Loss of Appetite: Eating small meals more often can help.6
Weight Loss: For weight loss, eating high-calorie snacks or smoothies with protein powder can help.6
Constipation or Diarrhoea: For constipation, eat more fibre (fruits, veggies, whole grains). For diarrhoea, you should have bland foods.6
When you keep yourself fit and active, it can help make your appetite better, digestion and boost your mood. The type of exercise you do can be light, it does not have to be intense. Examples of gentle exercises include taking walks and stretching.
Exercise is a great way to get rid of any stress, you will feel more in control of your own body and health. When you have a routine of exercising regularly, you can improve your sleep and energy levels, which will help create better eating habits.7
Going through cancer treatment is a difficult time, and it will affect your eating habits. Some people may start to eat less because they are feeling anxious or depressed, whilst other people may start seeking comfort through eating more food.
It is best to be surrounded by people who can understand your troubles and support you during this difficult time. These kinds of people can include speaking to a dietitian, psychologist or even a support group. Family and friends can also help by supporting and encouraging you, and helping prepare meals.8
When it comes down to the recovery of lymphoma treatment, it cannot be denied that nutrition is an important aspect of it. Eating well is key in helping you stay strong and mitigate side effects. Every person has different needs, but eating well, drinking water, and getting help when you need it can make a difference. Lymphoma is not easy; going through treatment is best with a healthcare team that includes a dietitian. This support group, alongside your family and friends, can help you with creating good meal plans and the strength you need to fight lymphoma.
