Post-Surgery Nutrition Tips for Breast Cancer Patients

Postoperative Diet After Breast Cancer Surgery

My mother is 52 years old, 160 cm tall, and weighs 48 kg.
She has stage I breast cancer and needs to undergo a left mastectomy.
The doctor mentioned that she will need chemotherapy afterward.
Could you please advise on what dietary considerations she should keep in mind post-surgery? Should she increase her caloric intake before chemotherapy? My mother wants to gain weight; how can she do that? Is it okay to supplement with Ensure between meals? Additionally, she has some gallstones.
I apologize for asking so many questions.
Thank you for your help!

Yumi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/22

Dr. Shi Guimei reply Nutrition

Hello! During chemotherapy, patients often experience side effects that lead to inadequate intake or nutrient loss, so it is best to supplement nutrition before starting treatment.
In addition to consuming low-fat dairy, whole grains, legumes, fish, meat, eggs, vegetables, fruits, and fats—six major food groups—patients can also include specialized nutritional products such as Ensure, Boost, or other meal replacements between meals.
Regarding gallstones, as long as the diet is not overly greasy, it should be fine.
Once in the chemotherapy phase, patients should eat as much as they can tolerate and also pay attention to food safety.
It is important to avoid any raw foods (such as salads, sashimi, or juices made from uncooked vegetables) or unclean foods.
Wishing you health and happiness! Sincerely, Dietitian Shih Kuei-Mei, Director of the Nutrition Department, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2016/06/22

More Info

Post-surgery nutrition is crucial for breast cancer patients, especially as they prepare for chemotherapy. Your mother’s situation, being 52 years old, 160 cm tall, and weighing 48 kg, indicates that she may be underweight, which can affect her recovery and response to treatment. Here are some tailored nutrition tips and considerations for her post-surgery care:
1. Caloric Intake: After surgery, it is essential to ensure that your mother consumes enough calories to support healing and prepare for chemotherapy. Generally, cancer patients may require more calories than the average person, especially if they are undergoing treatment. Aim for a balanced diet that includes a variety of food groups to meet her caloric needs. Since she is looking to gain weight, increasing her caloric intake gradually is advisable.
2. Macronutrient Balance: Focus on a diet rich in proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. Proteins are vital for tissue repair and immune function. Include sources such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and nuts. Healthy fats from avocados, olive oil, and fatty fish can also help increase caloric intake without requiring large volumes of food. Carbohydrates from whole grains, fruits, and vegetables provide energy and essential nutrients.

3. Frequent Small Meals: Since your mother may have a reduced appetite or difficulty eating large meals, consider offering smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This can help her consume more calories without feeling overwhelmed.
4. Nutritional Supplements: Using nutritional supplements like Ensure (安素) can be beneficial, especially if she struggles to meet her caloric needs through food alone. These supplements are designed to provide balanced nutrition and can be consumed between meals to help increase her overall intake. However, it’s essential to monitor her tolerance to these supplements, especially considering her gallbladder issues.
5. Hydration: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially if she experiences side effects from surgery or chemotherapy. Encourage her to drink plenty of fluids, but be mindful of her gallbladder condition when choosing beverages.
6. Dietary Restrictions: Given her history of gallstones, it’s important to avoid high-fat and greasy foods that could exacerbate her condition. Focus on low-fat cooking methods such as steaming, baking, or grilling.
7. Food Safety: As she prepares for chemotherapy, her immune system may be compromised. It’s vital to practice good food safety, avoiding raw or undercooked foods, and ensuring that all meals are prepared in a clean environment.

8. Monitoring and Adjustments: Regularly assess her weight and overall health. If she is not gaining weight or is experiencing side effects from her diet, it may be necessary to consult with a registered dietitian who specializes in oncology nutrition. They can provide personalized recommendations and adjustments based on her specific needs and treatment plan.

9. Emotional Support: Lastly, emotional support during this time is equally important. Encourage her to express her feelings and concerns about her health and treatment. Sometimes, the stress of a cancer diagnosis can affect appetite and overall well-being.

In summary, a well-balanced diet that emphasizes adequate caloric intake, protein-rich foods, and hydration, while considering her gallbladder condition, will be essential for your mother’s recovery and preparation for chemotherapy. Regular consultations with healthcare professionals, including a dietitian, can provide ongoing support and adjustments to her nutrition plan as needed.

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