Dear friends most of the cancer treatment requires chemotherapy sessions. People Facing chemotherapy sessions had some dilemmas in their minds.

This Blog may be helpful to you. Here are some myths and facts that you should be aware of

Myth: Cancer is incurable
Fact: Cancer is curable if detected on time

Myth: Cancer spreads by contact
Fact: Cancer is not contagious

Myth: Cancer spreads by biopsy or by surgery
Fact: Usually employed biopsy techniques and surgical methods are safe and do not spread cancer to other parts of the body

Myth: Eating sugars makes cancer worse
Fact: Eating sugars does not make cancer worse. Although there is data to show that cancer consumes more sugar, there is no evidence to show that eating less sugar will shrink cancer or make it disappear. Also, there is no evidence to show that eating sugar will cause faster progression or more relapses. Eating more sugar is not healthy for many other reasons and hence emphasis should be on a wholesome balanced diet.

Myth: Cell phones cause cancer
Fact: Cell phones emit low-frequency radiation which does not cause cancer

Diet helpful during chemotherapy sessions

Eat a light breakfast before going to chemotherapy sessions. Light, bland foods seem to work best. Some examples of choices are:

• Poached egg and toast
• Khichari / poha / upma / daliya
• Cereal/Muesli and milk
• Idli, Khaman , Dhokla
• Curd

During chemotherapy take a small, bland snack with you. You can try the above foods as well as snacks on low acid juices (apple, grape, and fruit nectars), liquid yogurts, fruits such as bananas. Bring a water bottle and fill it with your favorite beverage (avoid acidic foods which may be irritating to your digestive tract).


What do I eat post-chemotherapy for the next few days?

There are no proven foods that improve or worsen the effects of chemotherapy. However, a few general principles apply:

• Since the body’s immunity declines during chemotherapy, it is recommended that all food and water be hygienic and very clean. It is generally suggested not to eat any food whose cleanliness might be in doubt (for example: street food, food from restaurants with doubtful credentials, leftovers that have not been stored properly, delivered food, etc) and drink only properly treated water (Eg. Filtered, boiled or RO water). Do not eat raw or undercooked meat, fruit or vegetables. Fruits can be eaten, but only after removing the skin and thoroughly washing them.
• If you wish to eat non-vegetarian food, it should be cooked ideally under your supervision. Meat/chicken/fish should be fresh and cut into small pieces (which can be cooked all the way through) and cooked carefully at high temperature so that there is no risk of infection. If you cannot ensure these precautions, you may wish to avoid non-vegetarian food.
• High protein diets boost your strength during chemotherapy. High protein foods include dal, soyabean, paneer/cheese, non-vegetarian food. Protein supplements may be prescribed by your oncologist in some cases.
• Ensure you get adequate amount of calories. If your diet is poor due to nausea, vomiting or change in taste, try changing to preferred food, add flavour by condiments or spices.
• If you are a diabetic, monitor your blood sugars closely as they may fluctuate on chemotherapy.
• Eat small meals and snacks throughout the day (aim for 5-6 smaller meals rather than 3 large meals)
• Eat lower-fat, blander foods!
• Drink fluids frequently—this will prevent dehydration and remove some of the byproducts of the chemotherapy.

Do Yoga and exercise helps during chemotherapy sessions

Yoga increases our physical strength and flexibility while also calming our minds and emotions. If you just received a cancer diagnosis or are in the middle of active treatment, you may be wondering if yoga is right for you. Take a green signal for yoga from your doctor.

It is good for bones and muscles and helps in improving immunity.

It decreases fatigue.

It elevates your mood and appetite

Using Music as a Tool for Distress Reduction During Cancer Chemotherapy Treatment

Music may be an effective therapeutic tool during cancer treatment to improve patient psychological and physical well-being. Current research shows a positive effect of music on psychological outcomes

Indulge in work

Taking chemotherapy sessions does not mean that you need bed rest at home

You can indulge in all the activities of home and office.

You can continue to pursue your interests.

Watch your favorite shows on TV

You can indulge in Gardening, Painting, singing, playing musical instruments, indoor games, swimming, etc.

It will help in your mental well-being make chemotherapy sessions friendly and decrease your anxiety.

 Don’t overthink about your disease and don’t discuss it daily.

Each cancer behaves differently.

The percentage of cure depends on the diagnosis and stage.

If the Cure rate of your cancer is 40 % always be pessimistic that you will be in that 40 %.

Remove negative thoughts from your mind. Be strong.

About sex and chemotherapy

There’s usually no medical reason to stop having sex during chemo. The drugs won’t have any long-term physical effects on your performance or enjoyment of sex. Cancer can’t be passed on to your partner during sex. Don’t conceive while on chemotherapy sessions. Use barrier methods like condoms.

About maintaining personal hygiene

As chemotherapy sessions decrease immunity some people may suffer from fungal infections and skin infections.

Clean your body daily. Wash your genital organs during bathing.

Nails should be trimmed. Hairs should be maintained.

Wear fresh clothes and undergarments daily.