Nutrition and Cancer: Getting protein in my diet

I finally got the Ensure Max 30, and like you said, it isn't bad tasting..and does have a lot o protein. Thanks for the tip.

Early in my recovery period I could only handle liquids. Because of this I experimented with every type of smoothie you can imagine. Since you can’t tolerate dairy I suggest you research the numerous juice based smoothies with high protein. There are a lot of options that will provide protein, vitamins, carbs et al. There are also numerous protein powders that you can add to almost anything you are eating. I hope this helps.

Thank you. I will def try your suggestions. I am now able to drink Ensure Max..very surprised that I can..

@skoshi Sounds like you’re having great difficulty eating and getting proper nutrition. Just wondering if you’ve been able to see a dietician at your local hospital? They might be able to help. Please let us know what you are able to learn!

According to Premier Dietitian Jeff Novick it’s practically impossible for anyone taking in sufficient calories to sustain daily life to have a protein deficiency.

Good morning Thumperguy, I know you’re a scholar of nutrition and exercise which are fundamental keys to a long and productive life. My husband and I are the same way and have strived daily to stay as healthy as possible.

However, sometimes life throws a curveball even though we’ve done everything to avoid a catastrophic illness. For someone who is undergoing treatment for cancer, the lack of appetite brought on by nausea and gut issues can really get in the way of receiving calories and especially protein. I’ve been there and can tell you it was almost impossible some days to get any calories in at all.
So the addition of protein powders and other protein sources suggested by @soul become important to the recovery of someone on a restricted diet, whether it’s from cancer or other medical conditions which don’t allow for proper nutrition or calorie intake.

What protein sources would you recommend?

https://connect.mayoclinic.org/member/00-14a5e6bbf21b62b5164489/
I do not like Almond or soy milks but love tofu in my soups or noodle dishes..a good source of protein. Thank you more suggestions. I eat beef liver with onions, bok choy lightly steamed, any dark greens, refried beans go down pretty good. Puree your foods if you have to to help with swallowing. Also I use Biotene mouth rinse to increase the salva. There are other products as well. Research them and ask your medical team.

@loribmt You so right! While I strive for a good diet, being on oral chemo tends to lessen my desire for food. Unfortunately, there is the double-edged sword of having failing kidneys, and the need to follow a renal diet. In order to be as healthy as possible when I eventually start dialysis, I have modified my eating in the last two months. Several little meals of protein to keep a good blood level during the day [hummus and apple, toast and peanut butter, hard-boiled egg, etc]. A protein shake almost everyday, made with protein powder, fruit, Greek yoghurt. Careful on the carbs.

@bb21 I am like you, not a big fan of almond milk, or regular milk. Using an oat drink by Chobani now, vanilla flavored, it is creamy and tasty. My renal diet restricts dairy to about a half-cup per day, no beans/oranges/bananas/tomatoes/potatoes/ chocolate. Ah, what's a girl to eat? Oatmeal and cardboard!
Ginger

Oh, now I have to research some tasty options for renal failure situations. We have to find those goodies you enjoy but don't harm your situation. My son is a recipient of a kidney from my daughter. He is/was so careful about his diet pre- and post-transplant. VERY fastidious about his meds as well. Thank goodness they will be celebrating their 10th anniversary this year and both are in good health. Take care and live long. Will add you to my thoughts and prayer list.