Nutritional Needs for Pediatric Cancer Patients

What to eat 

1. Protein: Getting enough protein can help your child heal faster from the side effects of radiation and chemotherapy, while also helping to prevent infections

• Examples: cheese, eggs, milk, yogurt, lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, peanut butter, nuts, lentils, and soy

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2. Carbohydrates: Adding whole-grain breads and pastas to a child’s diet will increase fiber intake, helping children feel fuller longer and prevent constipation, a common side effect of cancer treatment.

• Examples: breads, pasta, potatoes, rice, cereals, fruits, corn, and beans

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3. Fats: Fats are also dense in calories, which is important to a child who might be losing weight during treatments.

• Examples: Healthy fats found in fish, nuts, olive oil, and vegetables, such as avocados.

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For more information email info@hatcherfoundation.org

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Resource: Fullmer, M. (Ed.). (2022, February). Nutritional needs for kids with cancer (for parents) - nemours kidshealth. KidsHealth.https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/cancernutrition.html#:~:text=Eating%20Right&text=Getting%20enough%20protein%20can%20help,all%20good%20sources%20of%20protein

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