Diet during radiotherapy for colorectal cancer

Colorectal cancer is still mainly treated with surgery, but many patients in the advanced stage have lost the opportunity for surgical treatment. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy are the main treatment methods. Some patients have poor chemotherapy effects and toxic side effects, so radiotherapy becomes the main treatment method. So what should you pay attention to in your diet during radiotherapy for colorectal cancer?

1. Increase dietary fiber intake: The main function of dietary fiber is to normalize intestinal peristalsis, increase the volume of stool, and reduce the time that stool stays in the rectum. The stool in the colon will make bacteria active and may produce carcinogens. When there is a lack of fiber in the diet, the stool in the colon will become dry and hard, and the passage speed will be slow, and the abdominal wall muscles will become weak, which will prolong the emptying time. If the time is too long, the chance of developing colon cancer will be relatively increased. Many studies have confirmed that dietary fiber can accelerate the speed at which carcinogens are excreted from the body through the digestive system.
2. Reduce the intake of fat in the diet: Excessive fat, especially animal fat, can stimulate the secretion of bile acid in the small intestine. When the amount of bile acid in the intestine is too high, it can easily become a carcinogen and promote the growth of cancer cells. Whether it is animal fat or vegetable fat, try to reduce it as much as possible.
3. According to the doctor's orders: transfuse albumin, amino acids, fresh blood, platelets, etc., to correct hypoproteinemia, anemia, coagulation disorder, etc. For patients with poor mental state, try to supplement the intake of some anti-cancer substances, such as fresh vegetables.