Nutrition & Cancer

Staying properly hydrated is important for everyone- especially those undergoing treatment for cancer. Side effects to radiation therapy such as diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or decreased appetite can put you at increased risk of becoming dehydrated.  Follow these tips to make sure you are getting enough fluids.

• Aim to drink 8 to 10 cups of fluid per day.

• Keep a water bottle with you and take sips throughout the day.

• Drink even if you are not thirsty

• Drink your fluids between meals to help you get the most throughout the day and keep you from getting full too quickly.

• If you have diarrhea or vomiting, pay extra attention to your fluid intake. You need to replace the fluids you've lost.

What counts as fluid?

Remember, foods that are liquid at room temperature count as part of your intake, too.