Nutrition in cancer therapy: Overview for the cancer patient

Abstract

Despite significant advances in oncologic treatment, cancer-associated metabolic derangements largely remain poorly understood and are often neglected in cancer care. Cancer cachexia and metabolic changes exhibited by neoplastic cells pose formidable barriers to improving outcomes and quality of life. Although cancer has traditionally been viewed as a proliferative disease caused by genetic mutations, newer perspectives suggest that it is primarily a metabolic disease. This paper discusses the etiology of cachexia and sarcopenia and nutrition interventions that can address these wasting disorders. The role of inflammation in cancer and the methods for preventing and resolving inflammation with nutrition intervention are also explored. Several nutrition recommendations aimed at overcoming cachexia, resolving inflammation, and improving cancer outcomes are provided based on current literature. This manuscript selected only a few areas on which to focus and is not all-inclusive of the expansive literature available on the topic of cachexia.

Effects of β‐hydroxy β‐methylbutyrate (HMB) supplementation on muscle mass, function, and other outcomes in patients with cancer: a systematic review

“…However, appropriate quality and quantity of nutrients are essential to maintain muscle mass. 15 , 16 , 17 , 18 , 19 Several nutrition interventions are under consideration for this purpose, including food supplements (e.g. protein, vitamin D, creatine, and fish oil) and oral nutritional supplements (ONS) administered alone or in combination with nutritional counselling.…”

“…The pathophysiology of muscle wasting in cancer is multifactorial and not yet fully understood. However, appropriate quality and quantity of nutrients are essential to maintain muscle mass 15–19 . Several nutrition interventions are under consideration for this purpose, including food supplements (e.g.…”

Identification and management of cancer cachexia in patients: Assessment of healthcare providers' knowledge and practice gaps

“…It is known that it is important to have the appropriate quality and quantity of nutrients to maintain muscle mass. 17 , 18 , 19 , 20 , 21 This can be challenging as a recent study shows that cancer patients with advanced stages of cachexia were associated with having lack of appetite and reduced dietary intakes. 22 The lack of effective pharmaceutical or nutritional interventions for management of cancer cachexia may contribute to the clinical perception that cachexia is an irreversible end‐stage condition.…”

“…Although guidelines differ in their recommendations on components of care/interventions, all highlight the role of reduced food intake and abnormal metabolism. It is known that it is important to have the appropriate quality and quantity of nutrients to maintain muscle mass 17–21 . This can be challenging as a recent study shows that cancer patients with advanced stages of cachexia were associated with having lack of appetite and reduced dietary intakes 22 .…”

Analysis of the causes of failed placement of nasoenteric tube under DSA guidance and treatment strategies for successful re-catheterization

“…However, because of their complex conditions, placement of the nasoenteric feeding tube by conventional endoscopy can be difficult (16)(17)(18). DSA-guided nasoenteric tube placement is relatively safe and reliable, serious complications are rare, and intraoperative imaging can identify the intestinal access after complex surgeries (19)(20)(21), as well as extensive abdominal metastasis and multiple intestinal strictures. By thorough analysis of cases of failed intubation (22)(23)(24), we can improve both preoperative preparation and intraoperative technique (25)(26)(27), thus improving the success rate and establishment of enteral nutrition in patients with malignant tumors.…”