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Nutrition and Lifestyle Considerations During Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to target and damage cancer cells, but it can also affect surrounding healthy tissues. This often results in side effects that influence appetite, digestion, hydration, and overall nutritional intake. While diet and lifestyle cannot eliminate these challenges, evidence indicates that certain strategies may help make them more manageable. Importantly, responses differ between individuals, depending on the radiation dose, treatment location, and personal health status
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IMPORTANT: Before making any changes to diet, supplements, or lifestyle during radiotherapy, it is recommended that discussions take place with the oncology team. Certain foods, dietary supplements, or herbal products may interact with radiotherapy, altering their effectiveness or side effect profile. An oncologist or medical doctor should always be consulted before making any adjustments.


General Considerations Across Radiotherapy

  • Fatigue is a common side effect and may be supported by prioritising rest, maintaining gentle physical activity if possible, and focusing on nutrient-dense foods.
  • Hydration should be maintained, as dehydration may worsen fatigue and treatment-related symptoms.
  • If there is a loss of appetite, try consuming smaller meals, energy-dense snacks, smoothies, soups, and having pre-prepared meals ready for when there is an appetite.
  • Food safety is crucial, as radiotherapy can weaken the immune system in some individuals. Undercooked meats, raw fish, unpasteurised products, and expired foods should be avoided.
  • Limit contact with harsh chemicals, toxins, or individuals who may be ill, due to a weakened immune system. Wearing gloves or a mask can help reduce exposure to contact.
  • Changes to the skin in the area of the radiation are common. Topical creams, including those containing vitamin E, may help ease skin discomfort following treatment, although results vary. Regular application of moisturisers may also be beneficial.
  • Try wearing loose-fitting clothes made from natural fibres in the area to be radiated.
  • Following treatment, use a high-factor sunscreen (e.g. SPF 50) to protect the skin.
  • Take care with pets. They can carry germs in their saliva. A bite or scratch could more easily become infected due to a weakened immune system. Even slight pressure from their paws or cuddling in the area of radiotherapy could cause discomfort.


Head and Neck Radiotherapy
Side effects may include mouth sores, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), dry mouth (xerostomia), and changes in taste.

  • For Dry Mouth: Frequent sipping of fluids, sucking on ice chips, and use of sugar-free lozenges may help maintain comfort. Alcohol and caffeinated drinks may worsen dryness.
  • For Mouth Sores or Swallowing Difficulties: Soft, moist foods such as yoghurt, scrambled eggs, soups, and smoothies are often easier to consume. Acidic, salty, or spicy foods are more likely to cause discomfort.
  • For Altered Taste: Experimenting with mild herbs, marinades, or cold foods may improve palatability when foods taste bland or metallic.


Chest Radiotherapy


Side effects may include oesophagitis (inflammation of the oesophagus), swallowing difficulties, or reflux-like symptoms.

  • Soft or pureed foods may reduce irritation when swallowing is painful.
  • Smaller, more frequent meals may be easier to tolerate than large meals.
  • Acidic, very hot, or spicy foods can exacerbate oesophageal discomfort and are often avoided.


Abdominal or Pelvic Radiotherapy


Side effects may include nausea, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, or loss of appetite.

  • For Nausea: Bland, low-odour foods such as toast, rice, or bananas may be easier to tolerate. Spearmint or ginger may help in the short-term to reduce nausea. (Ginger should not be used around the time of surgery as it may act as a blood-thinner.)
  • For Diarrhoea: Low-fibre, bland foods (e.g., white rice, bananas, applesauce, toast) and electrolyte-rich fluids are commonly emphasised.
  • For Constipation: Gradual fibre intake from oats, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, alongside sufficient fluids, may support regularity.
  • For Bloating or Gas: Limiting carbonated beverages and foods known to increase gas (beans, cruciferous vegetables, artificial sweeteners) may help.

Personalisation

  • Everyone responds differently to radiotherapy. Tracking foods and symptoms can help identify personal triggers or tolerances.
  • Individualise dietary guidance according to treatment type, symptom profile, and nutritional needs.


References:

Updated on: 15/10/2026

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