Eating during cancer treatments: What to avoid and why

Cancer treatments can be intense on the body, often affecting how and what you can eat.

Food safety can become an even bigger concern since cancer treatments affect the body’s immune system, making it harder for your system to fight off infections and diseases. This also can happen with certain foods that have a higher contamination risk.  

“Cancer treatments often weaken your immune system by lessening your white blood cells,” says Dr. Mousami Shah, an oncologist at Advocate Health Care. “This reduces your ability to fight infections, especially after eating a food where there’s a higher risk of E. coli, salmonella and staph infections.” 

What to avoid eating during cancer treatment 

To help protect yourself while undergoing potentially lifesaving cancer treatment, avoid eating: 

• Foods that have been left out without refrigeration 
• Foods left on dirty surfaces 
• Food that was handled with dirty hands 
• Uncooked or raw meats 
• Raw fish, like sushi 
• Foods that contain raw eggs 
• Unpasteurized cheeses 
• Unwashed fruit and vegetables 

“The best way to protect yourself is to practice basic food safety,” says Dr. Shah. “Washing your hands, avoiding cross contamination, cleaning your produce and making sure to refrigerate your food are easy ways to minimize the spread of infections and diseases.” 

What to focus on eating when receiving cancer treatments 

Maintaining a healthy diet is key to remaining healthy during your cancer treatments. It’s important to maintain a healthy weight, remain active and focus on essential nutrients.  

When building your meals, consider these options: 

• Plant-based foods, like beans, legumes, nuts, seeds and vegetables, are excellent sources of vitamins and minerals.  
• Healthy fats, like avocados, olive oil, grapeseed oil and walnuts. 
• Minimally processed carbohydrates, like whole wheat, bran and oats. 
• Foods high in vitamin D, like milk, orange juice and yogurt. 

“Eating well can be hard during cancer treatments,” says Dr. Shah. “Focusing on whole foods that are also a good source of protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats is key to keeping your body healthy while it undergoes treatment.” 

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