When facing a serious illness like breast cancer, proper nutrition plays a crucial role in supporting the body’s healing process. Eating the right foods can help patients maintain strength, cope with side effects of treatment, and recover faster. Whether you're undergoing breast cancer treatment in Pune or have completed it, understanding the power of nutrition can make a huge difference in your overall well-being.

Dr. Shona Nag, a renowned breast cancer specialist in Pune, emphasizes the importance of a balanced diet during and after treatment. She believes that food is not just fuel but also medicine that helps the body fight disease and recover efficiently.

Nutrition during Breast Cancer Treatment:

Treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery can take a toll on the body. They may cause side effects such as fatigue, nausea, loss of appetite, and weakened immunity. Eating the right foods can help manage these issues and provide the necessary nutrients to stay strong.

1.       Focus on Protein-Rich Foods:

Protein helps repair tissues and maintain muscle mass, which is essential during treatment. Some excellent sources include:

·         Lean meats like chicken and turkey

·         Fish such as salmon and tuna (rich in omega-3 fatty acids)

·         Eggs, which are packed with high-quality protein

·         Dairy products like yogurt and cheese

·         Plant-based sources like lentils, beans, nuts, and tofu

If you struggle with appetite loss, try adding protein shakes or smoothies to your diet.

2.       Stay Hydrated:

Many people undergoing breast cancer treatment in Pune experience dehydration due to chemotherapy or medications. Drinking enough fluids can help prevent this. Try:

·         Water with lemon or cucumber for added taste

·         Herbal teas (ginger or chamomile) to soothe nausea

·         Fresh fruit juices without added sugar

·         Coconut water for natural electrolytes

Avoid sugary sodas and caffeinated drinks, as they may cause dehydration.

3.       Include Whole Grains for Energy:

Fatigue is a common side effect of treatment. Whole grains provide slow-releasing energy and essential nutrients. Some good choices are:

·         Brown rice

·         Quinoa

·         Whole wheat bread and pasta

·         Oats

Whole grains also support digestion and prevent constipation, which can be a side effect of medications.

4.       Load Up on Fruits and Vegetables:

Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help strengthen immunity. Try to include a variety of colorful options:

·         Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale) for iron and vitamin C

·         Carrots, bell peppers, and sweet potatoes for beta-carotene

·         Berries (blueberries, strawberries) for powerful antioxidants

·         Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons) for immune-boosting vitamin C

Dr. Shona Nag, a leading breast cancer doctor, advises patients to consume a rainbow of fruits and vegetables every day to get a mix of nutrients.

5.       Healthy Fats for Strength:

Not all fats are bad! Healthy fats help maintain body weight and provide essential fatty acids. Some great sources include:

·         Avocados

·         Nuts and seed (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds)

·         Olive oil and flaxseed oil

·         Fatty fish like salmon and sardines

Managing Side Effects through Nutrition

Different treatments cause different side effects. Here are some common ones and the best foods to manage them:

1.       Nausea and Vomiting:

Eat small, frequent meals instead of large portions. Try:

·         Plain crackers or toast

·         Ginger tea or ginger candies

·         Bananas and applesauce

Avoid spicy, greasy, or heavily seasoned foods.

2.       Loss of Appetite:

If you don’t feel like eating, try:

·         Smoothies with yogurt, fruits, and protein powder

·         Small portions of nutrient-dense foods like nuts and cheese

·         Drinking soups and broths, which are easier to digest

3.       Fatigue:

Boost energy with:

·         Whole grains

·         Protein-rich foods

·         Iron-rich foods like spinach and beans

4.       Mouth Sores:

Eat soft, cool foods that don’t irritate the mouth, such as:

·         Yogurt

·         Mashed potatoes

·         Soft fruits like melons and bananas

Nutrition after Treatment: What to Eat for Recovery:

Once treatment is over, the focus should be on regaining strength, preventing recurrence, and boosting overall health. Here’s what to include in your post-treatment diet:

1.       Antioxidant-Rich Foods

Antioxidants help repair cells and reduce inflammation. These can be found in:

·         Berries, citrus fruits, and tomatoes

·         Nuts and seeds

·         Green tea

2.       Fiber for Digestive Health:

A high-fiber diet helps maintain a healthy digestive system. Good sources include:

·         Whole grains

·         Fruits like apples and pears

·         Vegetables like broccoli and carrots

3.       Calcium and Vitamin D for Bone Strength

Certain treatments can weaken bones. Strengthen them with:

·         Dairy products

·         Leafy greens

·         Almonds

·         Fortified cereals

4.       Hydration and Detoxification

Drink plenty of water and include detoxifying foods such as:

·         Lemon water

·         Green leafy vegetables

·         Herbal teas

Foods to Avoid for Better Health:

While some foods promote healing, others can slow recovery or increase the risk of complications. Avoid:

·         Processed and fast foods high in unhealthy fats

·         Sugary drinks and sweets, which can cause inflammation

·         Red and processed meats (bacon, sausages)

·         Excessive alcohol and caffeine

Dr. Shona Nag advises her patients to stick to a clean, whole-food-based diet to reduce the chances of cancer recurrence and maintain good health.

Nutrition is a powerful tool that can help the body heal during and after breast cancer treatment in Pune. By eating a balanced diet rich in protein, whole grains, fruits, and healthy fats, patients can manage side effects, regain strength, and improve overall well-being.

Dr. Shona Nag, a leading breast cancer doctor, always stresses that making smart food choices can have a lasting impact on recovery. Eating well is not just about survival—it’s about thriving and leading a healthy life.

Dr. Shona Nag is a highly respected breast cancer specialist in Pune with over two decades of experience in oncology. She is known for her expertise in breast cancer treatment in Pune and has helped countless patients with advanced and personalized care.

As a dedicated breast cancer doctor, Dr. Nag specializes in chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, ensuring the best possible outcomes for her patients. She is actively involved in cancer research and has contributed to several national and international studies.