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Cancer cases are rising, and about 2.1 million new cases are projected to be recorded in India by 2040, marking a 57.5% increase from 2020. Head and neck cancer accounts for 30% of all cancer cases. Maintaining proper nutrition and managing the quality of life of patients with throat cancer is challenging, especially in the last stage. This blog will focus on the importance of nutrition for throat cancer patients and three highly nutritious foods that can provide essential nutrients and comfort during this difficult time.
Synopsis
Understanding Throat Cancer
Throat cancer is an umbrella term used for cancers that develop in the pharynx (pharyngeal), larynx (laryngeal or vocal cord cancer), or tonsils (tonsil cancer). These cancers can significantly affect a patient's ability to eat, drink, and swallow, especially during the last stage. Even throat cancer treatments (Surgery, Radiation, and Chemotherapy) further impact nutritional intake and absorption, affecting quality of life.
Throat Cancer Symptoms
The symptoms of throat cancer will vary depending on the stage of the tumour and its location. This includes:
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Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)
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Changes in voice (hoarseness or not being able to speak properly)
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Sore throat or cough
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Sudden weight loss
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Lumps in the neck or throat
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Throat pain
The first-stage cancer symptoms are usually easy to treat and alleviate, while as the disease progresses to its last stage, these symptoms can intensify. Seek consultation from our Medical Oncology Experts in Bhubaneswar if you experience any of these symptoms for early and better treatment outcomes.
Importance of Nutrition for Throat Cancer Patients
Stage-4 throat cancer is very challenging, which makes eating and swallowing difficult. This often leads to weight loss in cancer patients, called cancer cachexia. Maintaining proper nutrition for throat cancer patients is critical for avoiding malnutrition and further decline in their health. A healthy body can better sustain the effects of cancer treatment, increasing the chances of recovery if the patient is well-nourished. Adequate nutrition is crucial for preserving muscle mass, supporting the immune system, and enhancing overall well-being. It helps manage symptoms and improves energy levels, making it easier to perform daily activities. Taking smaller meals and adding nutrient-dense, easy-to-consume foods and calorie-rich liquids can provide essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins, aiding the body's ability to cope with the stress of advanced cancer and its treatments. Seek support from healthcare professionals during this challenging phase with personalised nutritional care.
3 Nutritious Foods for Throat Cancer Patients in the Last Stage
1. Smoothies and Protein Shakes
Smoothies and protein shakes are excellent options for throat cancer patients due to their smooth texture and liquid consistency. These liquid foods provide essential nutrients, proteins, and healthy fats. Along with providing high nutrition and calories, they also keep you hydrated. These can be prepared as per your individual preferences and nutritional needs. Add a variety of fruits, vegetables, and protein to these smoothies and shakes to enhance nourishment. These drinks can be sipped slowly, making them easier to ingest for patients with severe swallowing difficulties. For example:
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Banana and Berry Smoothie: Make a blend of bananas, berries, and Greek yoghurt in almond milk to make a drink rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and protein.
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Green Protein Shake: Combine spinach, avocado, and protein powder in coconut water for a shake full of essential nutrients and healthy fats.
2. Pureed Soups
Pureed soups are another nutritious soft throat cancer food to eat that can be added. They are easy to swallow and can be packed with nutrients and healthy fats. For a balanced and nourishing diet for cancer patients, pureed soups can be customised with various vegetables and legumes. You can also add butter, meat, poultry, or fish to make it calorie-rich by adding protein or healthy fats.
Some nutritious recipes include:
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Lentil Soup: Lentils are highly nutritious, containing a good amount of protein and fibre. Add vegetables like carrots, celery, broccoli, and tomatoes to pureed lentils for a healthy, nutritious meal that is easy to consume.
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Carrot and Ginger Soup: Carrots are high in vitamins A and C, while ginger has anti-inflammatory properties. This combination can be soothing and beneficial for the immune system.
3. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are one of the best food for throat cancer that can be fortified with additional nutrients to support throat cancer patients. Adding ingredients like olive oil, cheese, or pureed vegetables can enhance their nutritional value. They are high in calories and have a creamy texture, making them easy to chew and digest. Also, mashed potatoes help with nausea and are a great source of beta-carotene and other vital micronutrients. They are easy to prepare and can be made in various ways to suit the patient's taste and dietary needs. For example:
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Mashed Potatoes with Spinach: Along with the benefits of mashed potatoes, adding spinach provides iron and vitamins. Also, add butter or olive oil for healthy fats. This combination results in a nutrient-dense, creamy dish.
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Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: Adding cheese enhances the flavour and increases the protein and calcium content, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and bone health in cancer patients.
Conclusion
Patients in the last stage of throat cancer often lose their appetite and develop other symptoms like pain, mouth sores, and breathlessness, making it even more difficult to eat anything. But adequate nutrition is vital for patient comfort and well-being. Adding these nutritious foods can provide essential nutrients while being gentle on the throat. For personalised dietary advice and appropriate treatment of throat cancer, consult with our Medical Oncology Hospital in Bhubaneswar, to sail smoothly through this challenging time. Check our blog page for the latest medical updates.
FAQ's
Avoid foods that are hard to swallow, increase the risk of infection due to a low immune system, or irritate your throat. These include:
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Raw fruits and vegetables
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Soft and doughy bread
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Soft-cooked eggs
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Tough meat
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Acidic foods
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Spicy foods
This is an advanced stage, but not always terminal. This cancer will require aggressive treatment to extend life expectancy.
Laryngeal or oropharyngeal cancer is likely to recur. Thus, make sure to attend all follow-up appointments so that your doctor can thoroughly check your overall health and avoid such instances with the right and timely treatment.
Just like smoking, the consumption of alcohol increases your risk of developing cancer, including throat cancer. So, it is always advisable to drink alcohol in moderation, as the more you drink, the more you are at risk.
To schedule an appointment with the Oncology Department at Manipal Hospitals, contact us or visit our website.
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