Should I be worried about weight loss?
Weight loss can be divided into two categories: intentional and unintentional. Intentional weight loss can be a result of someone trying to lose weight through food choices or movement. But often, in cancer treatment, we see unintentional weight loss, or weight loss without someone trying, sometimes due to increased stress. This type of weight loss […]
What foods should I include in my diet?
We encourage food intake that nourishes the body without guilt or shame, practicing flexibility and giving yourself grace when it comes to making food choices. Food is meant to be enjoyed. Treatment may come with side effects that make it difficult to eat or enjoy certain foods. Research encourages us to eat as many plants […]
What foods should I avoid?
Raw/unpasteurized animal products (fish, undercooked meat, unpasteurized milk/cheese, raw eggs, etc.) Food that doesn’t make you feel well after eating. Food that you are allergic to.
Does sugar affect my cancer diagnosis?
Sugar itself is not a cancer-causing substance. A diet routinely high in added sugars from sweetened beverages and foods can contribute to inflammation in the body that may put individuals at an increased risk for developing chronic diseases including cancers. Sugar is found naturally in many foods we consider to be healthy choices, so instead, […]
How do I drink enough water to stay hydrated?
Hydration needs can vary from person to person based on body composition, treatment, activity levels, side effects, and much more. Sweating, fevers, diarrhea or vomiting increase hydration needs. A baseline of 64-80 fluid ounces is usually recommended and this can come from beverages such as water, sports drinks, juice, milk, protein drinks, etc. Also consider […]
My family member doesn’t want to eat, what can I make for them?
It is important to encourage a loved one, instead of pressuring. There may be a variety of reasons someone isn’t interested in eating, including treatment side effects. Sometimes when asked ‘what would you like?’, the question is too large and not specific enough. Try listing a couple of options for them to choose from or […]
Do I need an advance directive?
Like everyone over the age of eighteen, you need a Healthcare Power of Attorney as an absolute minimum. Most people and their families haven’t planned sufficiently for serious illness or incapacity. We tend not to talk to our loved ones about it. And most of us don’t have our wishes spelled out in any formal way. […]
Do I need an advance directive if I’m not going to die from cancer?
Yes. Everyone over the age of eighteen should have a Healthcare Power of Attorney as an absolute minimum. We tend not to talk to our loved ones about our health wishes and we never know when we may become incapacitated.
What is an advance directive?
An advance directive is simply an instruction or set of instructions about how you want to be cared for. It’s intended to represent you and your wishes in the event you become unable to speak for yourself.
Are clinical trials dangerous?
There’s risks and benefits to consider for every medical intervention. The risks of clinical trial participation are outlined very clearly prior to participation. Clinical trials are not without risk, just like standard care.
