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Some people, usually women, put on weight during chemotherapy. Although the reasons are unclear, weight gain may be related to intense food cravings that develop despite the nausea. The average weight gain for women is about 7 pounds.
Whether you gain weight or not, good nutrition is very important during treatment. People who eat well cope with side effects better and fight infection more easily. Their bodies can also rebuild healthy tissues faster.
Eating well during chemotherapy means choosing a balanced diet that contains all the nutrients your body needs, including foods from each of the following food groups: fruits and vegetables; poultry, fish, and meat; cereals and breads; and dairy products. You also should take in enough calories to keep your weight up and, most importantly, enough protein to build and repair skin, hair, muscles, and organs.
You also may need to drink extra amounts of fluid to protect your bladder and kidneys during your treatment.
Revised: 03/08/2008
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