Managing Weight Changes During and After Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the chemical treatment used to kill cancer cells, shrink tumors and cure certain types of cancer. While it can be incredibly effective and often means survival for many people, there are certain side effects to deal with. According to Chemo Care, chemotherapy can either directly or indirectly cause both weight gain and weight loss. Weight loss can occur due to a lack of appetite and therefore less eating; sickness such as diarrhea, vomiting and nausea; and dehydration. There are several things you can do to gain the weight back after chemotherapy.

Things You'll Need

• Snacks
• Nutrient-rich foods
• Water
• Seasonings
• Doctor

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Exercise. If your doctor allows it, do some light exercising like walking. Burning calories will actually improve your appetite. Meanwhile, it will help with sleeping and your mood. Once your appetite begins to improve, you will consume more calories and gain weight.

• 2

  Manage the symptoms of sickness that are causing you to eat less and lose weight. If you are having diarrhea, drink lots of water and eat more bland foods that don't have a lot of fiber, such as rice, pasta and white meats. Avoid greasy foods and foods with whole grains and nuts. This will also help reduce your nausea and vomiting.

• 3

  Prevent dehydration. Increase your fluid intake. You can do this by take small sips because they are more likely to be tolerated than a lot all at once. If you feel dehydrated, do what you can to stop minimize your vomiting and keep drinking fluids. Avoid caffeine and alcohol because they will make you more dehydrated. (Ref. 1)