The fuel to fight cancer

Cancer treatments can bring challenging side effects like fatigue, nausea, changes in taste, and loss of appetite. Eating may feel difficult, but nourishing your body helps maintain strength, supports healing, and improves energy. 

What is Wellness Wake Up Call?

Wake up to better health with Wellness Wake Up Call! In just two minutes, University of Illinois Extension and WVIK, Quad Cities NPR, bring you bite-sized, science-based guidance to support lasting health and well-being. Each episode offers simple, practical tips and motivation to help you take small steps toward a healthier, happier life.

Good morning, this is your Wellness Wake Up Call with University of Illinois Extension.
Today, we’re talking about how to fuel your body to fight cancer—especially during treatment, when good nutrition and self-care can make a big difference.
Cancer treatments can bring challenging side effects like fatigue, nausea, changes in taste, and loss of appetite. Eating may feel difficult, but nourishing your body helps maintain strength, supports healing, and improves energy. Focusing on plant-based foods that are common in the Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of cancer and can help protect against cellular damage.
Start by eating small, frequent meals or snacks throughout the day instead of three large ones. Choose high-protein, high-calorie foods such as eggs, yogurt, peanut butter, or smoothies to help maintain weight and muscle. Drink plenty of fluids—water, broths, or sports drinks—to stay hydrated, especially if you’re experiencing vomiting or diarrhea.
If food doesn’t taste right, try eating foods cold or at room temperature, use herbs and spices to boost flavor, or switch to plastic utensils if you notice a metallic taste. For dry mouth, sip liquids often and choose moist foods like soups or smoothies.
When fatigue sets in, prepare meals in the morning, accept help from others, and keep ready-to-eat foods on hand. Even light movement, like stretching, can help boost appetite and energy.
Every person’s experience is unique, but with patience, planning, and the right fuel, you can help your body recover and feel stronger day by day.
Thank you for listening! I hope you have a happy and healthy day ahead. This has been Kristin Bogdonas, food and nutrition educator with University of Illinois Extension.