Doctor Le Tan Dat, Deputy Director of the Oncology Center at Tam Anh General Hospital, TP HCM, stated that stomach cancer can affect all genders and age groups, but it is most common in individuals aged 50 and above. Men have a higher incidence of stomach cancer than women. If detected and treated promptly in its early stages, the disease has a cure rate of up to 90%.

Stomach cancer patients often experience nutritional challenges such as: loss of appetite and weight loss. Alongside treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, an appropriate diet significantly enhances treatment effectiveness and overall quality of life.

Doctor Diep consults a patient. Illustration: Tam Anh General Hospital.

Doctor Dat advises patients to divide their daily meals into 6-8 smaller portions and ensure adequate hydration. It is crucial to supplement with diverse nutrients, including: carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals.

Patients should avoid foods high in saturated fats, such as: grilled items, bacon, frozen foods, canned goods, and fried dishes. These are difficult to digest and can hinder the body's nutrient absorption.

Also, avoid alcohol, beer, coffee, and sour or spicy foods, like: mango, toad fruit, vinegar, and chili. These can easily cause irritation, damage the stomach lining, and worsen symptoms. When feeling hungry, limit milk consumption, as some components in milk may stimulate acid secretion and cause discomfort.

Post-surgery patients should begin eating early, following their doctor's advice, to restore bowel motility and boost resistance. Prioritize liquid and soft foods, such as: porridge, vermicelli, and pho. It is important to eat slowly and chew thoroughly.

Patients undergoing chemotherapy often experience side effects, such as: bloating, nausea, indigestion, mouth ulcers, high fever, and low red and white blood cell counts. Therefore, they should not eat until overly full or when extremely hungry. Prioritize low-odor, light dishes, and supplement with fruit juice, sugarcane juice, and yogurt. Incorporating foods with antibacterial properties, such as: garlic, lemongrass, honey, basil, and ginger, into meals can also help with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial support.

If experiencing diarrhea, patients should prioritize salty foods to replenish lost sodium. Drink at least one glass of water or electrolyte-replenishing drinks after each loose bowel movement. Beyond a suitable diet, patients should engage in moderate exercise and perform exercises appropriate for their health condition, such as: breathing exercises, yoga, tai chi, and stretching, to help improve overall health.

Bao Tram