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Abbott Nutrition Careline 1800-88-6233 Mondays-Fridays 9am-6pm 
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Cancer, Weight Loss and Nutrition
You may lose your appetite, your food may taste funny, and you may lose weight. But right now you need all the strength you can get, so try to eat well.
How does cancer cause changes to the body’s metabolism?
The cancer cell produces substances that alter the body’s metabolism of protein, carbohydrates and fat. Consequently, the body burns calories faster than they can ordinarily be replaced. An increase in the metabolism of protein and fat can lead to the loss of muscle tissue as well as fat.
Why is maintaining weight so important?
The body weight must be monitored because it can affect one’s ability to deal with cancer and its treatment. Managing weight loss and rebuilding muscle can give you more energy for the independence and activities you treasure.
Managing weight loss
Good nutrition is vital
If you have lost or are losing weight or can only manage to eat a little, increasing calorie and protein in your diet is important:
- Include good protein sources in your diet, e.g. chicken, fish, meat, beans and milk
- Keep a supply of your favourite high-calorie, high–protein snacks such as milkshake within easy reach
- Include ProSure® , nutritional formula clinically shown to promote weight gain and strength as part of your diet treatment regime
Talk to your health care provider
If you are experiencing unwanted weight loss, tell your doctor. You may find it useful to keep a record or log of what you eat and drink,
the medicines you take, how you feel, and your weight. Share your log with your healthcare provider and consider getting advice from a
dietitian or nutritionist.
Gain the weight and strength you need to stay in step with everyday life
ProSure® is a high energy, high-protein, EPA (an omega–3 fatty acid) enriched nutrition specially developed for people who
experience cancer–induced weight loss. Studies 1–4 showed that taking two servings of ProSure® daily as part of overall
care promoted weight gain and helped to achieve an improved quality of life through increased strength and physical activity.