The Importance of Hydration After Cancer

THE IMPORTANCE OF HYDRATION AFTER CANCER

March 16, 2024|Cancer Nutrition, General Nutrition, Nutrigenomics, Wellness

Proper hydration is a fundamental component of overall health, but its importance becomes even more relevant during and after cancer treatment. Often, during treatment, the body experiences a series of challenges, from the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation therapy to postoperative recovery. This is where hydration plays a vital role in supporting patient well-being and recovery.

One of the main reasons to emphasize hydration after cancer is that the treatment itself can cause dehydration. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy, for example, can lead to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, which can increase fluid and electrolyte loss in the body. Additionally, these treatments can often affect appetite and taste, making it difficult for the patient to consume enough fluids and nutrients through diet.

Proper hydration is also essential for maintaining the function of vital organs and electrolyte balance in the body. During cancer treatment, the body may be under significant stress, and staying well-hydrated can help reduce the burden on the kidneys and other organs, thereby promoting their optimal function.

Furthermore, after cancer treatment, the body still needs support to recover and heal. Proper hydration can help facilitate this process by providing the body with the necessary fluids to transport nutrients to cells, eliminate toxins, and promote tissue healing.

Tips for Proper Hydration:

• Drinking enough water is crucial to staying hydrated. It's recommended to consume at least 8 glasses of water a day, but needs may vary based on age, weight, activity level, and other factors.

• In addition to water, liquid can be obtained from other sources such as herbal infusions, vegetable broths, or even fruits and vegetables with high water content, like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges.

• Avoid excess alcohol and caffeine, as they can have a dehydrating effect on the body.

• Keeping a water bottle handy throughout the day can serve as a constant reminder to stay hydrated.

Monitoring Hydration Status:

• Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, dry skin, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, and decreased frequency and amount of urine.

• It's important to observe the color of urine: light or pale yellow urine generally indicates good hydration, while dark yellow urine may be a sign of dehydration.

• Other signs to watch for are elevated heart rate and blood pressure, which can be high in case of dehydration.

Dietary Adaptations:

• Consuming foods with high water content can help stay hydrated. Some options include fruits like watermelon, cantaloupe, oranges, strawberries, and pineapple, as well as vegetables like cucumber, lettuce, tomato, and zucchini.

• Soups and broths are another excellent way to increase fluid and nutrient intake.

• It's important to maintain a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods to support recovery and overall health after cancer.

Hydration Supplements: 

Hydration supplements, such as sports drinks or oral rehydration solutions, can be helpful in restoring the balance of electrolytes and fluids in the body, especially if the patient has difficulty staying hydrated through regular fluid intake.

Sports drinks typically contain electrolytes such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium, which can be beneficial in replenishing lost nutrients during sweating or dehydration caused by illness or cancer treatment.

Oral rehydration solutions contain a combination of water, sugars, and electrolytes in specific proportions to promote rapid absorption and rehydration of the body. These solutions can be particularly useful in cases of severe dehydration or fluid loss due to nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

Consultation with Healthcare Professionals:

It is essential for patients to consult with their medical team about any concerns related to hydration after cancer. Healthcare professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and dietitians, can provide personalized guidance on the patient's hydration needs, taking into account individual factors such as the type of cancer, treatment received, preexisting medical conditions, and dietary preferences.

Additionally, the medical team can assess and treat any complications related to hydration, such as electrolyte imbalances, severe dehydration, or treatment side effects that may affect the patient's ability to stay hydrated.

Open and regular communication with the medical team is key to ensuring proper care and support during recovery after cancer, including the management of hydration and other aspects of healthcare.

If you need further guidance on hydration after cancer or have specific questions about your situation, please do not hesitate to contact me at [email protected]. I am here to provide personalized support and additional resources to assist you on your journey to recovery and well-being.

Remember, you are not alone in this fight. Together, we can work to ensure that you receive the care and attention you need to stay healthy and strong during and after cancer treatment.

Committed to your health and well-being,

Jackie Velasco

Purple Nutrition and Wellness