Boost Your Energy During Chemotherapy with These Dietitian-Approved Foods

Chemotherapy can feel like running a marathon… without training for it. The fatigue is real. Some days, even lifting a spoon feels like an effort. If you or someone close to you is undergoing treatment, you already know this isn’t just “being tired.” It’s deep, bone-heavy exhaustion.

But here’s the good news: food can help. Not magically. Not overnight. Still, the right nutrition can quietly support your strength, immunity, and recovery while you undergo the Best Chemotherapy in Gurgaon or even Cancer Radiation Treatment in Gurgaon.

At Mayom Hospital, dieticians often remind patients of one simple truth — your body is working overtime. Feed it wisely.

Let’s talk about what that actually means.

1. Protein: Your Recovery Partner

Chemotherapy affects fast-growing cells. That includes cancer cells, yes — but also healthy ones. Protein helps repair tissues and maintain muscle mass. Without it, fatigue worsens.

Think:

• Well-cooked eggs
  
  
• Moong dal, masoor dal
  
  
• Paneer or tofu
  
  
• Soft chicken or fish
  
  
• Greek yoghurt
  
  

Not feeling hungry? Try soups. Or a simple protein smoothie. Small portions. Slow bites. No pressure.

2. Complex Carbs for Steady Energy

Sugar spikes and crashes are not your friends right now. Your body needs steady fuel.

Oats. Rice. Whole wheat chapati. Boiled potatoes. Even plain khichdi on tough days.

These foods are gentle on the stomach. Easy to digest. Reliable. They don’t demand too much from you.

3. Colour on the Plate (But Keep It Safe)

Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants and micronutrients that support healing. Bananas are easy. Papaya works well. Stewed apples can be comforting.

Vegetables? Go cooked. Lightly steamed carrots, pumpkin, lauki, spinach. Raw salads may not be ideal when immunity is low.

Food safety matters. Wash everything thoroughly. When in doubt, cook it.

4. Healthy Fats = Hidden Energy

When appetite drops, calorie intake drops too. A spoon of peanut butter. A handful of soaked almonds. A drizzle of olive oil over vegetables.

Small additions. Big difference.

Energy doesn’t always come from volume. Sometimes it comes from density.

5. Hydration Is Not Optional

Fatigue worsens when you’re dehydrated. And chemo can do that quickly.

Sip water. Coconut water works. Clear soups help. Lemon water if your mouth tolerates it.

Don’t wait until you feel thirsty. By then, you’re already behind.

6. Eat Small. Eat Often.

Big meals can feel overwhelming. So don’t do big meals.

Eat every 2–3 hours. Even if it’s just half a bowl. Even if it’s a biscuit with tea. Progress, not perfection.

A Quick Reality Check

There’s no “superfood” that cancels side effects. Anyone promising that? Be sceptical.

What does work is balance. Personalised guidance. Listening to your body.

That’s why treatment centres like Mayom Hospital, often considered among the best hospitals in Gurgaon, combine oncology care with dietitian support. Because Best Chemotherapy in Gurgaon isn’t just about medicines. It’s about whole-person care.

Some days you’ll eat well. Some days you won’t. That’s okay.

Recovery isn’t linear. Healing isn’t loud. It’s quiet, steady work happening inside you.

Fuel your body. Rest when needed. And let your care team guide you through it — one meal, one day at a time.