5 Things Cancer Patients Should Know About Supplemental Nutrition  

It’s true that undergoing cancer treatment can result in a loss of appetite. Your body is working in overdrive to help you recover, and chances are you’ll need to increase your calorie intake to decrease the risk of malnutrition. Fortunately, supplemental nutrition is a great option available when you need to consume more calories but you have little appetite or interest in eating.     

Some people with cancer have trouble with certain odors or smells and even certain flavors. “We often reach for liquids because they can sometimes be a little gentler on our gastrointestinal (or GI) tract,” says Melissa Budic, MS, RD, LDN, CNSC, Director, Medical Science Liaisons. “They’re not as aromatic, and a lot of times they can be tolerated better.”      

Many experts might suggest incorporating liquid nutrition products into your eating plans.

Here are five things to consider when deciding which nutrition product is the right choice for you.     

1. Supplemental nutrition products can pack a nutritious punch and may help you meet your daily nutrition and calorie needs.   

Many cancer patients struggle to swallow (and keep down) chewable food during treatment, which is why liquid nutrition products can be so beneficial. Liquid nutrition is a convenient way to get the essential nutrients you need (like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber) and macronutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, and fat.     

Your doctor or dietitian will likely encourage you to consume more calories as well as more vitamins and minerals. If they haven’t already, ask them to provide you with a list of nutrients, foods, and supplemental nutrition options that will help you meet your caloric goals.    

Think of it this way: You could choose to drink a milkshake or a high-quality liquid nutrition shake to meet your caloric goals. Both options are deliciously satisfying and easy to consume. However, only one provides the right kind of calories and nutrients your body needs. If you are craving a milkshake, consider using your liquid nutrition product as the base for a homemade milkshake that blends nutrients, flavor, and fun.    

2. Liquid nutrition products allow for consuming calories and nutrients quickly.  

Decreased appetite can be a real struggle for patients, but it’s important you get enough calories to help prevent unintentional weight loss. Budic notes that liquid nutrition can help patients consume quality nutrition in addition to the calories they need. Adequate calories and nutrition are key in supporting overall health and regaining weight that may have been lost during cancer treatment.      

3. Convenience and portability matter.  

Rather than having to think about sitting down and eating a meal (which can feel like a chore when you have a high calorie goal to reach every day), liquid nutrition is easy to take on the go or drink at home. It gives you an easy option to sip on throughout the day, helping you achieve your goals without constantly feeling full. You can even bring one with you to your healthcare appointments.    

4. The labels reveal a lot.   

Your doctor, nurse, or dietitian will help you decide the appropriate amount of protein, carbs, and fat as well as the ideal amounts of vitamins and minerals for your individual needs. So, it’s important to look at the nutrition facts panel and labeling on the foods you buy to understand what ingredients and nutrients you’re getting.   Just like preparing a plated meal, the quality of the ingredients in your nutrition products matter.     

5. They’re versatile.    

Find a few flavors of liquid nutrition you love and rotate them out every once in a while to avoid flavor fatigue. Your doctor might recommend using some or all of a liquid nutrition product as the base for a smoothie, which will allow you to incorporate more whole fruits and veggies into your diet if necessary. Smoothies are a great way to sneak in an extra serving of spinach, berries, or other superfoods.  

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