Too many cancer survivors are relying on 'guess work' for nutrition, new review warns

"Survivors deserve evidence-based support that helps them live well, not confusion or guesswork. One of the most striking findings of the research was the limited and inconsistent access to evidence-based nutrition care for cancer survivors, despite clear evidence of benefit. Many survivors are motivated to improve their diet following treatment, yet often do not receive timely or appropriate guidance."

"Without professional support, individuals may rely on unreliable sources of information, leading to confusion, anxiety and, in some cases, unnecessary dietary restriction. Nutrition after cancer doesn't have to be perfect or complicated. What survivors need is clear, trustworthy guidance that supports their recovery and quality of life."

"Persistent treatment-related symptoms frequently continue well into survivorship, directly influencing food preferences, intake and metabolic outcomes. For common cancers such as breast cancer, a patient can have symptoms like fatigue, altered taste or smell and weight gain. A dietary strategy in this instance could include protein-rich meals, a Mediterranean-style diet and resistance exercise."

Cancer survival rates are improving, yet nutrition support remains inadequate for survivors. Research reveals limited and inconsistent access to evidence-based nutrition care despite clear evidence of its benefits. Many survivors are motivated to improve their diet after treatment but lack timely, appropriate guidance. Without professional support, individuals turn to unreliable information sources, causing confusion and anxiety. Nutrition after cancer requires clear, trustworthy guidance rather than rigid rules. Small, realistic dietary changes significantly impact health outcomes and well-being. Cancer survivors consume fewer fruits and vegetables than the general population. Treatment-related symptoms like fatigue, altered taste, and weight gain persist into survivorship, affecting food intake and metabolism. Specific dietary strategies, such as protein-rich meals and Mediterranean-style diets combined with exercise, benefit particular cancer types.

Read at Irish Independent