Clinical Nutrition & Dietetics

Nutritional Strategies in Oncology & Cancer Care

Nutritional interventions in oncology aim to support patients through all stages of cancer treatment, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and recovery. Proper nutrition helps maintain strength, preserve lean body mass, reduce treatment complications, and enhance overall quality of life. Cancer and its treatments often lead to appetite loss, nutrient deficiencies, inflammation, and metabolic alterations, requiring targeted dietary strategies. Evidence-based oncology nutrition focuses on managing symptoms such as nausea, taste changes, mucositis, and digestive challenges while ensuring adequate protein, calories, and micronutrients. Nutritional strategies help strengthen immunity, support wound healing, and reduce treatment toxicity. Anti-inflammatory diets, plant-forward approaches, and personalized nutrition plans are increasingly integrated into cancer care to promote resilience and recovery. Monitoring metabolic changes and addressing cachexia are also essential components of care. By integrating nutrition with multidisciplinary treatment, clinicians enhance patient outcomes and support long-term survivorship.