Keep Healthy During Chemo

Follow these steps to feel good during your cancer treatment.

By Health Monitor Staff

Reviewed by John D. Hainsworth, MD, and Roy S. Weiner, MD

Keep Healthy During Chemo

Undergoing chemotherapy to treat your cancer? Staying in top shape is the No. 1 way to make sure you get the right dose of chemo at the right time. That, in turn, helps your chemo treatments destroy as many cancer cells as possible. So take these steps to feel your best throughout treatment.

Eat well.

Focus on fruits, vegetables, lean protein, legumes, whole grains and healthy fats. Drink plenty of water, too—it will help your body process the chemo drugs and prevent constipation.

Stay Active.

Aim for 150 minutes of exercise a week. A combination of aerobic and resistance exercises can help boost your immunity, fight fatigue and make your treatment more effective.

Avoid Germs.

Chemo lowers levels of white blood cells, the body’s main infection fighters. So wash your hands frequently, stay away from sick people and never share food, drinks and utensils.

Practice good oral hygiene.

Chemo can cause mouth sores, which can become infected. Inspect your mouth daily and use a soft-bristled toothbrush after each meal.

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