Nutrition and dietetics
It is important to try and maintain a good nutritional status during and after your treatment. Dietitians are available to provide advice on eating well when you are having cancer treatment. Once treatment is finished they aim to help you achieve as healthy a diet as possible by following recommendations on good nutrition.
If you are able to eat a healthy diet with a variety of foods, it should give you a wide variety of vitamins and minerals. However, if your appetite is poor, you may wish to see a dietitian who can check whether you are eating a balanced diet. You may need a supplement to meet your daily requirements.
Supplements
It is important to remember that some vitamins and minerals can be harmful when taken in high doses and can react with some medications. Ask your dietitian, doctor or pharmacist before starting to take supplements. The dietitians are able to provide you with simple, evidence-based advice on how to follow a sensible, well-balanced diet and how to maintain good nutrition. They may also give advice on how to use supplements if this is appropriate.
Nausea and vomiting
Nausea and vomiting are side effects of some cancer treatments. They may also be due to the illness itself or to constipation. There is a range of anti-sickness (anti-emetic) medicines available. Ask your doctor which would be suitable for you.
If your appetite is also affected or you have taste problems, you may find it helpful to ask your dietitian for advice on what to eat and drink to help with nausea, taste problems and preventing constipation.
Constipation or diarrhoea
If you suffer from constipation or diarrhoea, it would be advisable to speak to a member of your medical team or a clinical nurse specialist.
Relaxation
You may also find relaxation helpful. Our occupational therapists can teach you a variety of relaxation techniques.
How can I see a dietitian?
The dietitians provide both an inpatient and outpatient service.
If you are an inpatient and feel you need to see a dietitian you can ask your doctor or nurse. You may be seen during your inpatient stay or be given an outpatient appointment.
If you are an outpatient you can contact the dietitians directly or ask for a written or verbal referral from any member of the team caring for you. You will not be seen on the day of referral but a dietitian will contact you by post with an appointment. There are morning and afternoon appointments available each week at both hospitals.
Unfortunately, our dietitians are unable to see patients for dietary advice that is unrelated to cancer.
Chelsea – Nutrition and Dietetic Service: 020 7808 2814 or 020 7808 2689
Sutton – Nutrition and Dietetic Service: 020 8661 3066