Diet and nutrition for metastatic breast cancer and treatment

Good nutrition may help keep your strength up, cope with side effects of treatment, and lower the risk of infection. A dietitian or nutritionist can help you find a diet that allows you to get enough calories and protein. The following tips may be helpful to ensure you’re getting the nutrients you need, but be sure to talk with your care team about your wellness plan:

  • Plan meals with more vegetables, fruits, and whole grains
  • Try to eat 1.5-2 cups of fruits and 2-3 cups of vegetables per day
  • Limit your intake of salt and sugar
  • Try to avoid processed and red meats
  • Stay hydrated with water

Exercise

Sometimes, it can be hard to get out of bed, and some days may be more challenging than others. But doing what you can to stay active can help lessen fatigue and boost energy. Exercise doesn’t need to be intense—just focus on what you can do to be active while undergoing treatment.

Exercise while Undergoing MBC Treatment Exercise while Undergoing MBC Treatment

Integrative therapies

Integrative therapies may help reduce side effects of treatment. Talk with your care team to understand if it is potentially worth incorporating alternative therapies into your wellness activities. These may include:

  • Acupuncture
  • Massage
  • Meditation
  • Chiropractic therapy
  • Yoga
  • Guided imagery

These therapies may help with joint pain, nausea, headaches, and back pain, and assist with relaxation.

Relaxation

Relaxation may help relieve health anxiety and stress. Remember to take time for yourself. You can plan ahead for times when you know you’ll need more rest. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and cut back on any extra commitments that may drain your time and energy. Be sure to ask friends and family for support with tasks and errands when you’re feeling overwhelmed.

Relaxation to Relieve Health Anxiety and Stress Relaxation to Relieve Health Anxiety and Stress

Sleep

Research suggests that most people need 7-9 hours of sleep each night. With treatment, your sleep patterns may change. Many people find themselves awake in the middle of the night due to treatment side effects or anxiety. This is normal, and there are things you can do to help protect and preserve your sleep.

  • Avoid the blue light emitted from smartphones and other screens
  • Keep your bedroom dark and cool
  • Consider practicing guided imagery or meditation to help get to sleep