The Importance of Protein for Those Undergoing Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment is a challenging journey that demands resilience and strength from the body. During this time, nutrition plays a critical role in supporting the body’s ability to cope with the stress of treatment and maintain overall health. Among the various nutrients, protein stands out as particularly important. 

Why Protein Matters During Cancer Treatment

1. Tissue Repair and Maintenance: Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and radiation, can cause damage to healthy tissues. Protein is essential for repairing and building these tissues, aiding in faster recovery.

2. Immune System Support: Protein helps maintain a robust immune system, which is crucial during cancer treatment. A strong immune system can help defend against and fight infection.  

3. Muscle Mass Preservation: Treatments can lead to muscle loss and weakness. Adequate protein intake helps preserve muscle mass and strength, contributing to better physical function and quality of life.

4. Energy Levels: Protein provides a sustained source of energy, helping to combat fatigue, which is a common side effect of cancer treatment.

5. Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is important during treatment. Protein helps in managing weight by promoting satiety and preventing excessive weight loss or gain.

Recommended Daily Protein Intake

The recommended daily protein intake varies based on individual factors, including weight, activity level, and overall health. Here are the general recommended doses for those undergoing treatment.  

• For Adult Males: 60 grams per day

• For Adult Females : 54 grams per day

It’s important to note that this dose may need to be adjusted based on your blood protein level and/or kidney function.  Remember to consult with your healthcare providers to determine the appropriate amount based on your personal needs.

Healthy Sources of Dietary Protein

Incorporating a variety of protein-rich foods into the diet ensures a balanced intake of essential amino acids and other nutrients. Here are some excellent sources of dietary protein, along with the amount per serving:

• Lean Meats

  • Chicken Breast (3 oz): 26 grams of protein

  • Turkey Breast (3 oz): 25 grams of protein

• Fish 

  • Salmon (3 oz): 22 grams of protein

  • Halibut (3 oz): 16 grams of protein

  • Sea Bass (3 oz): 21 grams of protein

  • Mahi Mahi (3 oz): 24 grams of protein

• Plant-Based Proteins

  • Lentils (1 cup cooked): 18 grams of protein

  • Chickpeas (1 cup cooked): 15 grams of protein

  • Quinoa (1 cup cooked): 8 grams of protein

  • Tofu (1/2 cup): 10 grams of protein

  • Edamame (1 cup): 17 grams of protein

• Nuts and Seeds

  • Almonds (1/4 cup): 8 grams of protein

  • Chia Seeds (2 tablespoons): 4 grams of protein

  • Peanut Butter (2 tablespoons): 8 grams of protein

• Other

  • Eggs (2 large): 12 grams of protein

  • Cashew Yogurt (1 cup): 5 grams of protein

  • Coconut Milk or Hemp Milk, (1 cup): 5 grams of protein

Getting Enough Protein Can Sometimes Be Challenging

For individuals undergoing cancer treatment, obtaining sufficient protein in their diet can be particularly challenging. Treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery often cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, altered taste, and difficulty swallowing, all of which can significantly reduce food intake. Additionally, the body’s increased metabolic demands during treatment require more protein for tissue repair and immune function. Fatigue and emotional distress associated with cancer can further diminish the motivation to prepare and consume balanced meals. Consequently, these factors combined can make it difficult for cancer patients to meet their protein needs, exacerbating the risk of malnutrition and impacting their overall health and recovery.

Tips for Increasing Protein Intake

1. Incorporate Protein in Every Meal: Ensure that each meal contains a good source of protein. This could mean adding eggs to breakfast, chicken to lunch salads, and fish or beans to dinner.

2. Snacking Smartly: Choose high-protein snacks like nuts, yogurt, and protein bars.

3. Protein Powders: protein powders can be a convenient way to increase protein intake, especially for those with reduced appetite or difficulty eating solid foods. Here is the protein powder I recommend, Garden of Life Protein Powder. Also, here are some smoothie receipes you may want to try.

4. Combining Foods: Pairing protein sources with other nutrient-dense foods can enhance overall nutrition. For example, combine beans with rice or add nuts to oatmeal.

Conclusion

Adequate protein intake is key for nutritional support during cancer treatment. It helps repair tissue, support the immune system, preserve muscle mass, maintain energy levels, and manage weight. By including a variety of healthy protein sources in your diet and consulting with your personal healthcare team, you can better support your body while going through treatment.