When patients are undergoing cancer treatments, it is vitally important that they keep up their strength by healthy a healthy diet and avoiding excess fatigue. It is common, however, for chemotherapy patients to have a less than robust appetite, while they are undergoing treatment. By not eating right, patients often endure increasing fatigue, weakness, and depression. It is important to do everything possible to increase oral intake, because by doing so, the healing process takes hold.
Patients need not suffer from poor appetite during cancer treatment. It is important for the patient to ask their doctor to recommend a treatment plan that will resurrect their appetite and make them stronger. One of the possible components to this treatment plan is medication. There are certain prescription medications that stimulate the appetite. One such medication is called Megace. This medication, when taken as directed can greatly increase the appetite and reverse cancer fatigue. In addition, the increased food intake better allows the patient to respond to chemotherapy and radiation by improving mental function, digestion and nerve function.
Megace is not without side effects however. If a patient experiences adverse reaction from the medication, the physician can offer an alternative medication. In addition, vitamin supplements can significantly increase a person’s appetite and increase energy. Of course, if the patient is still unable to adequately maintain a healthy diet, the health care provider can recommend an oral supplement such as Ensure or Boost. These liquid supplements are chocked full of vital nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and amino acids. These supplements can literally pump renewed vigor and energy into those that take them. Nutritional supplements such as these also are available in a variety of mild flavors such as vanilla, strawberry and chocolate. Many cancer patients will find that taking a can of one of these supplements is an acceptable substitution for a well rounded meal.