Month: August 2024

Foods to Avoid While Undergoing Cancer Treatment: A Guide for Supporters

Posted on by b-present Team

We know how crucial it is to b-there and support young adults with cancer in meaningful ways. One significant way to show support to your loved ones going through this time is through food—nourishing meals can provide comfort and strength during a difficult time. However, certain foods can interfere with cancer treatments or exacerbate side effects. The first step is to ask about their specific likes, dislikes, and food allergies. Educate yourself as much as possible on their dos and don’ts so you know what to avoid. 

These needs will evolve as treatments and tastes change, so be sure you are up to date. If a nutritionist is assigned to their care team, they can also be a great source of helpful guidelines and should be your resident expert if there are questions. Also, be sure to seek information from authoritative sources like the NIH and the American Cancer Society.

Here’s a guide on what to consider so you can prepare meals that will be both safe and comforting for your loved one undergoing cancer treatment.

Raw or Undercooked Foods 

Cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation can weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections. To minimize the risk of infection, avoid raw seafood (like sushi and sashimi). Steer clear of undercooked meat, poultry, and eggs. Choose pasteurized dairy products over unpasteurized ones.

Spicy and Highly Seasoned Foods 

Mouth sores and gastrointestinal discomfort are common side effects of some treatments. Spicy foods can worsen these issues, so it’s best to skip hot peppers and chili powder. Avoid curry and other spicy sauces, and limit heavily seasoned dishes as well. 

High-Fiber Foods 

High-fiber foods are essential for a healthy diet, however, they may cause bloating, gas, and diarrhea during some treatments. To prevent discomfort, be sure to check in with your loved one first. Limiting raw vegetables, choosing refined grains over whole grains, and reducing intake of legumes and beans are all possible ways to mitigate these side effects.

Greasy and Fatty Foods 

Greasy and fatty foods may be tough to digest and increase nausea or vomiting. To keep meals light and easy on the stomach, avoid fried foods, skip fast food, and opt for lighter sauces over heavy, creamy ones.

Sugary Foods 

Excessive sugar can lead to things like weight gain and blood sugar spikes, so try to keep things balanced and remember moderation is key. A favorite dessert once in a while can be a nice treat, so don’t deprive them of their minimal candy and desserts. Limit sugary beverages and avoid processed food and/or snacks.

Alcohol 

Alcohol can interfere with medications and worsen side effects. Keep this in mind when offering beverages as well as alcohol-based sauces and desserts.  

Acidic Foods 

Acidic foods can irritate the digestive system, especially if there are mouth sores or gastrointestinal issues. Examples of acidic foods include citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, as well as tomato-based products and vinegar-heavy dishes. 

Caffeine 

Caffeine can lead to dehydration and exacerbate anxiety and sleep issues. It can be found in a variety of beverages and foods. In addition to the obvious beverages like coffee, tea, and energy drinks, it is found in certain sodas, chocolate, and coffee-flavored desserts. To keep your loved one comfortable try to limit these, and avoid them before bedtime. 

Tips for Supportive Meal Preparation

  • Opt for gentle cooking methods – steaming, baking, or poaching can make food easier to digest. 
  • Focus on balanced, mild flavors and use herbs such as basil, parsley, and thyme instead of strong spices. 
  • Hydration is key, so ensure there are plenty of fluids, such as water and broth in the dishes you’re cooking for your loved one. 
  • Protein is a powerful and important source while undergoing treatment, try to include easily digestible proteins like chicken, fish, tofu, and eggs. 
  • Soft and soothing foods like mashed potatoes, oatmeal, and smoothies can be comforting and easy to eat.

 

b-there. It really is that simple.

Staying connected and receiving consistent and meaningful support is a cancer survivor’s lifeline. The b-there app was designed specifically for busy young adults, balancing life and being supportive friends. Survivors can easily share their status, desire to connect, manage activities, and request needed items. Supporters can check the app for updates on how their loved one feels before connecting or stopping by, and they can sign up to fulfill items from their wish list. Being there and staying connected has never been easier! The app is free and available to download now on iOS and Android.


 

Bringing a meal to a loved one undergoing cancer treatment is a great way to show intention with your support. By being mindful of their likes, dislikes, and things to avoid,  you can help them feel more comfortable and cared for at such a pivotal time in their lives. Remember, the best meals are those prepared with love and attention to their unique needs during this challenging time. 

By following these guidelines, you’ll be able to provide meals that not only nourish but also bring comfort and support to your loved one during cancer. For more tips and resources, visit b-present.org/b-there.

Want more tips on being a supporter:

 

References

  1. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, National Institutes of Health. (2021). Eating Hints: Before, during, and after Cancer Treatment. In Eating Hints [Book]. https://www.cancer.gov/publications/patient-education/eatinghints.pdf 
  2. Food safety during cancer treatment. (n.d.). American Cancer Society. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/survivorship/coping/nutrition/weak-immune-system.html 

Survivors and Supporters: Bridging the Gap in Cancer Diagnosis Conversations

Posted on by b-present Team

Cancer is a profound life experience that leaves lasting impacts not only on those who undergo treatment but also on the people around them. For young adults, this experience often involves the challenging task of reintegrating into social circles and establishing new relationships. A critical aspect of this process is sharing one’s cancer diagnosis with potential friends, dates, or partners—a conversation that can be nerve-wracking for both survivors and supporters.

From the survivor’s perspective, revealing a past cancer diagnosis can evoke concerns about stigma, vulnerability, and the fear of rejection. Survivors may worry about being perceived differently or treated as fragile, making them hesitant to disclose their health history. But, while these fears are valid, many survivors have found that sharing their story can also lead to deeper, more meaningful connections.

Take Candice Tomkins, for example. When she decided to open up about her experience, she feared the worst—rejection, pity, or being seen as damaged. But instead, she found something else.

“I literally cried when I received his reply. Not only did he acknowledge I’d been through a shit time but he still wanted a second date … I went through diagnosis and treatment mostly alone. It was only after NED I felt able to let people in again. This was the first time I had let myself get close to someone and it felt almost euphoric … Starting to date this person is what helped me realize I don’t need to think about cancer all the time. It helped me remember that good things exist. Life really does go on. The next few weeks and months of dating him would turn out to be my journey back into the real world. I’m forever grateful for it.”

On the other hand, supporters may grapple with their own emotions, including fear, misunderstanding, and uncertainty about how it impacts their relationship, plans for the future, and how to offer appropriate support.


In this blog, we’ll explore the dual perspectives of cancer survivors and their supporters, exploring the unique challenges each faces. We’ll offer insights and practical tips for fostering empathy, understanding, and compassionate communication. By bridging these perspectives, we aim to create a more supportive environment for young adults navigating life after cancer.

 

A Cancer Survivor’s Perspective on Sharing Their Diagnosis

Cancer survivors face many challenges, but one of the most complex can be sharing their diagnosis with new friends or potential new partners. Cancer changed their life in profound ways, shaping who they are and how they view the world. As they rebuild their life, they must navigate the delicate task of whether or not to disclose their cancer experience – an experience that may have shaped who they have become, but does not define them as a person. A great piece of advice that is often emphasized to cancer survivors: “You are more than your cancer diagnosis. It’s just one part of you.” Disclosure can be a complex process filled with fear, vulnerability, and even hope.

Fears and Concerns as a Survivor

  1. Stigma and Misunderstanding: Worrying about misconceptions is real. Will people see weakness and fragility? Will they think cancer is still a looming threat or that you’re somehow “damaged goods”? These fears can lead to hesitation in if, when, and how to open up.
  2. Emotional Vulnerability: Talking about cancer means revisiting a painful chapter of life. IIt’s not just about sharing a fact; it’s about exposing a part of their life that is deeply personal and raw. The thought of being seen differently or treated with pity can make them reluctant to share.
  3. Fear of Rejection: This is perhaps the scariest part. What if your diagnosis scares away a potential friend or partner? They might worry about future health issues or how your past illness impacts longevity or family planning goals.
  4. Timing and Context: Deciding when to share your story is tricky. Tell someone too soon, and it might be overwhelming. Wait too long, and it might feel like you were hiding something important. Finding the right moment is a constant struggle.

 

“The idea of getting close to someone new after a cancer diagnosis can be nerve-wracking. I mean, cancer has changed so many things already; what if it’s also changed what a romantic relationship could look like … We all have parts of ourselves that feel a little scary to expose. This is important to remember, because the person you are nervous to be real with may also have their own disclosures to make. When you are getting to know somebody, it’s natural to share more and deeper things as a way to create connection.  With the right person, the vulnerability that comes with this kind of sharing helps build trust and intimacy.  And, you guessed it, this is the stuff that all good relationships are made of.” —Marloe Esch DNP, RN, OCN

 

Understanding the Perspective of a Young Adult Supporter

Learning that a new friend or potential partner has had cancer can be a rollercoaster of emotions. It can trigger a range of feelings and concerns, and navigating these with self-reflection, empathy, and understanding is key.

Fears and Concerns as a Supporter

  1. Uncertainty and Fear: If you’ve never known someone with cancer, it can be overwhelming. Questions may arise about their health and what the future holds. The fear of losing someone to illness, even if they’re currently healthy, is a real and daunting thought.
  2. Lack of Understanding: You might not fully grasp what the survivor has been through. Cancer is a complex and deeply personal experience, and ignorance can lead to saying the wrong thing or not providing the needed support.
  3. Role in Their Life: Supporters may wonder how to best offer support. Are they still recovering? Should you treat them differently? What’s the best way to be there without making them feel defined by their illness?
  4. Personal Reflection: The news can lead to confronting your own fears and biases. Understanding your own emotions is crucial to ensuring you respond with empathy and compassion.

 

 

Recommendations for Empathy and Support

Whether you’re a cancer survivor sharing your story or a supporter learning about a loved one’s past illness, mutual understanding and kindness will help reduce stigma, create stronger connections, and broaden the capacity for compassion.

  1. Listen Without Judgment: For supporters, it’s essential to listen without interrupting or making assumptions. Sharing something so personal takes courage. Creating a safe space for the survivor to share their story at their own pace is crucial.
  2. Express Empathy, Not Pity: Show understanding and support without pity. Survivors don’t want to be seen as victims; cancer may have impacted their life, but it doesn’t define them. They need friendship, companionship, and connection to thrive.
  3. Educate Yourself: Supporters should take the initiative to learn about cancer and its impacts. This knowledge can help in providing better support and understanding the survivor’s perspective.
  4. Respect Privacy: If someone shares their diagnosis with you, respect their privacy. Do not share their story with others without their permission.
  5. Be Patient and Supportive: Building trust takes time. Whether you’re a survivor or a supporter, patience and consistent support are key in fostering a strong and understanding relationship.
  6. Self-Reflection: For supporters, reflect on your feelings and reactions. Understanding why you feel a certain way can help you respond more compassionately and be a better ally.

 

Conclusion

Sharing a cancer diagnosis and receiving the news are both deeply personal experiences that require empathy, understanding, and mutual respect. For young adults, these conversations can be particularly challenging as they navigate relationships and social reintegration. By fostering an environment of kindness and support, we can help ensure that cancer survivors feel valued and understood as they continue their healing, rebuilding their lives and moving forward.

 

References

  1. Smith, A. W., Parsons, H. M., Kent, E. E., Bellizzi, K. M., Zebrack, B. J., Keel, G., … & Harlan, L. C. (2013). Social, emotional, and economic impacts of cancer on young adults: Their perspectives and challenges. Journal of Cancer Survivorship, 7(2), 211-222.
  2. Zebrack, B., & Isaacson, S. (2012). Psychosocial care of adolescent and young adult patients with cancer and survivors. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 30(11), 1221-1226.
  3. Patterson, P., Millar, B., & Desille, N. (2012). The unmet needs of emerging adults with a cancer diagnosis: A qualitative study. Psycho-Oncology, 21(11), 1232-1238.

 

Want more tips on being a supporter: