During chemotherapy, one of the biggest concerns for patients is a weakened immune system. A decline in immunity can make the body more susceptible to infections, which not only affects the treatment schedule but also provides an opportunity for tumors to grow. Therefore, maintaining a stable immune system is one of the key tasks during chemotherapy. In addition to nutritional supplements, choosing the right foods is the best way to boost immunity.
Goji berries and red dates are considered warming herbs that can help balance the body's immune system. (Image provided by Heho Health)
Common nutritional supplements during chemotherapy, such as glutamine, fish oil, and vitamins, are often believed to have "anti-cancer" properties. However, these supplements mainly help provide nutrition and support the body’s basic functions. According to Su Xiuyue, Director of the Nutrition Department at Taipei Medical University Hospital, these supplements are not necessary for everyone, and the best source of nutrition is still food itself. Unless the body is extremely weak or unable to eat, relying on nutritional supplements is not recommended.
White Fungus and Lotus Seed Soup. (Image provided by Heho Health)
To boost immunity, it is essential to increase the number of white blood cells. Protein is indispensable because it provides the raw materials needed for the bone marrow to produce white blood cells. At the same time, other foods should be included to stimulate the bone marrow to produce immunoglobulins, thereby enhancing overall immunity. For example, foods like shiitake mushrooms and black fungi are rich in polysaccharides, which can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and boost immunity. Dishes like white fungus and lotus seed soup, Four-God soup (made from barley, lotus seeds, Euryale seeds, and poria), goji berry and red date tea, and astragalus and codonopsis soup are all suitable choices for chemotherapy patients. These not only provide nutrition but also help patients better cope with the physical challenges brought on by chemotherapy.
Through a well-balanced diet, chemotherapy patients can maintain a higher level of immunity during treatment, reduce the risk of infections, and ensure the continuity of treatment, thereby improving overall treatment efficacy and quality of life. This is why choosing the right foods during chemotherapy is so important.
