Good nutrition is one of the most powerful tools to support you throughout your cancer journey. Whether you’re preparing for treatment, managing side effects, living with advanced cancer or moving into recovery, eating well can help you feel stronger, cope better, and improve your overall wellbeing.
Please note: Every person’s experience with cancer is different. That’s why your nutrition plan should be tailored to your individual needs, preferences and treatment. Speak to your healthcare team, including a dietitian, for support at any stage.
Why eating well matters
Cancer and its treatments place extra stress on the body. Eating a balanced diet before, during and after treatment can:
- Boost energy levels
- Maintain muscle strength
- Improve mood and quality of life
- Enhance ability to tolerate treatment
- Speed up recovery
- Help heal wounds and rebuild tissues
- Support immune function and reduce infection risk
- Lower the chance of cancer returning and reduce the risk of other illnesses like heart disease or diabetes
Before treatment – preparing your body
Eating well before treatment can help build your strength and prepare your body for what’s ahead.
If you’re feeling well enough, try to:
- Eat a variety of foods from the five food groups
- Be physically active to build and maintain muscle. Our Life Now program offers free introductory exercise courses* at locations across Western Australia. *Criteria apply.
- Include more energy and protein-rich foods if you’ve lost weight or are eating less
- Ask your GP or oncologist for a referral to a dietitian for personalised advice
- Plan ahead by freezing healthy meals or setting up a meal roster with friends or family
Your cancer care team might also refer you to other helpful professionals, like a physiotherapist, exercise physiologist or psychologist.
During treatment – managing nutrition and side effects
Cancer treatment can affect your appetite, taste, digestion and energy levels. Mealtimes may become challenging – especially if eating is a big part of your life. Here are some ways to make it easier:
- Eat small, frequent meals or snacks if your appetite is low
- Watch for signs of malnutrition, such as unintentional weight loss or fatigue, and let your care team know if you’re concerned
- If you are managing weight gain, try smaller portion sizes, eat mindfully without distraction, use healthier cooking methods like grilling and steaming, and choose low-calorie snacks
- Choose higher energy and protein foods to help maintain weight
- If eating is difficult, swap snacks for fortified drinks like homemade smoothies or milkshakes with whole milk and skimmed milk powder
- Stay physically active if possible. Movement can help improve appetite, digestion and mood. Our Life Now program offers free introductory exercise courses* at locations across Western Australia. *Criteria apply.
- Always speak to your doctor or dietitian before taking supplements or making major dietary changes
After treatment and beyond: supporting recovery and long-term health
Once treatment ends, continuing to care for your body through healthy lifestyle choices can support your recovery, rebuild strength, and help reduce the risk of cancer coming back.
Focus on:
- Maintaining a healthy weight and rebuilding strength
- Eating a wide variety of nutritious foods, including wholegrains, fruit, vegetables, legumes and lean proteins
- Staying physically active to regain muscle and energy
- Limiting alcohol – aim for no more than 10 standard drinks a week, and no more than four on any one day
- Attending regular check-ups with your doctor
- Seeking help from a physiotherapist or exercise physiologist to create a safe, effective activity plan
- Continuing to see a dietitian if eating remains difficult, side effects persist, or you want help staying on track
Living with advanced cancer
Good nutrition remains important when living with advanced cancer – not to treat the cancer, but to help you feel as well as possible.
- Eating well can support your strength, energy and overall quality of life
- It’s important to adjust your diet to meet your changing needs. For example, choosing full-cream milk instead of low-fat can help increase your energy intake
- If eating is difficult, speak to your doctor about medications that may help improve your appetite
- Nutritional supplements may also be helpful if you’re not getting enough from food – ask your doctor, palliative care specialist or dietitian for guidance
Eating well during cancer matters, not just for body, but for mind and spirit too. If you’re finding it hard to eat, pack meals, boost fluids, or just need someone to talk to, call our 13 11 20 Cancer Information and Support Line. Our specially trained staff can offer practical guidance, emotional support, and connect you with professionals who care.
