Dietitian to talk on 'Nutrition During Cancer Treatment'

WEST SPRINGFIELD - What is the best diet when faced with a cancer diagnosis?

"Researchers have found that consuming a plant-based diet and including plenty of protein is ideal for maintaining immune function, energy, and muscle mass before and during treatment," said Rachel Z. Sapelli, an oncology dietitian with the Sister Caritas Cancer Center at Mercy Medical Center in Springfield.

"The earlier these healthy diet changes are made, the stronger the impact."

Sapelli, a registered dietitian and nutritionist with a master's degree in nutrition and health promotion, will talk about "Nutrition During Cancer Treatment" on Wednesday, Sept. 13, at 5:30 p.m. at the Center for Human Development's Cancer House of Hope, 1999 Westfield St.

"The time period between a cancer diagnosis and the start of treatment is a particularly stressful time," Sapelli added.

"Many patients and their families find that taking action right away can help to ease some anxieties and focus on getting ready for their cancer care. Because nutrition is critical for strengthening the body before surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, just a few changes can make a difference. Also, once treatment begins, good nutrition can help to better tolerate side-effects, decrease risk for infection, maintain energy levels, and speed recovery."

Sapelli said certain eating problems are associated with cancer treatments.

"The top two most common eating problems I see are nausea and decreased appetite. Thankfully, we can use certain medications and/or specific diet changes can help to curb these symptoms and ease eating concerns," she said.

Sapelli added the "location and progression of the disease definitely guides my nutrition interventions" for a patient.

"An individual with colon cancer on chemotherapy will have very different eating problems as compared to someone having chemoradiation for a throat cancer," Sapelli said.

"I approach each person's nutrition therapy individually and continue to adjust our nutrition priorities throughout treatment."

During treatment, Sapelli said, "Many people find that they cannot eat their favorite foods and struggle with previously-tolerated portion sizes."

"Oftentimes, trying to eat four- to six- smaller 'mini-meals' daily can be helpful for managing eating problems and bowel issues, " Sapelli said.

"I also commonly recommend adding shakes and smoothies to supplement the diet during cancer treatments. These small changes can help to ease mealtime stress and help fight cancer-related fatigue."

Asked to name any foods or food groups especially important to consume during treatment, Sapelli reinforced "this depends on each person, their cancer treatment, and side-effects."

"I would say that because people with cancer going through treatment have higher nutrient needs, it's important to take in plenty of protein and calories when able," she said.

"For example, yogurt, eggs, nut butters, and fish are some good high protein foods. Above all, try to take advantage of days or mealtimes when feeling well. Eating better on good days can help to balance out sick days when eating right is difficult."

She added, "Bowel medications, appetite stimulants, anti-nausea pills, and pain control regimens can help to relieve some side-effects" that can impact nutrition during treatment.

"Our team focuses on prevention of and early intervention with these symptoms. This way, we hope to support individuals to maintain their eating," Sapelli said.

She advised caregivers to not "get discouraged" and to "ask for help if needed."

"Caregivers may see their loved ones struggling to eat even their favorite foods. This is common, so try to encourage them to eat more on days when feeling better," Sapelli said.

She added a caregiver might "join a support group, meet with the care team's social worker, or ask a friend to prepare a meal on busy days."

Sapelli completed her education and training through Boston-based Simmons College, Brigham and Women's Hospital, and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.

A smoothie making demonstration will follow Sapelli's talk. The event is free but registration is requested by calling (413) 733-1858.

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