Nutrition is extremely important when caring for children with cancer. The right kinds of foods and nourishment when provided at the right time helps them maintain their strength, tolerate treatments better, and improve their overall quality of life.

 Children undergoing cancer treatment face unique nutritional challenges that impact food intake due to side effects from treatments such as changes in appetite, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, taste changes and gastrointestinal symptoms. Added to this, there are dietary restrictions that also need to be considered that can help address certain side-effects. Thus, creating a meal plan tailored to their specific needs can ensure that they receive the nutrients necessary that supports these challenging times and their overall growth and development. The role of a pediatric oncology nutritionist is critical in creating such a balanced meal plan.

Understanding Nutritional Needs

Children with cancer typically require more calories and protein than their peers to support growth, healing, and recovery. Protein is essential for tissue repair and immune function. Good sources of protein include:

• Meats: Chicken, fish and eggs.
• Dairy: Milk, cheese, curd, paneer, and yogurt.
• Plant-based options: Dals (lentils), beans, nuts, and seeds.

Carbohydrates and fats provide the energy needed for daily activities and bodily functions. It’s important to focus on healthier carbohydrate sources like whole grains (e.g., whole wheat, oats, millets) and nutrient-dense fats such as:

• Healthy fats: Groundnut oil, sesame oil, avocados, nuts, flaxseeds, pumpkin seeds and fatty fish.
• Saturated fats: While some saturated fats from dairy products can be beneficial due to accompanying nutrients, it’s best to limit unhealthy trans fats found in processed foods.

Meal Planning Strategies

Planning and customizing meals for a child with cancer is best handled by a qualified nutritionist. However, some foundational principles for such meal plans are as follows:

1. Incorporate High-Calorie and High-Protein Foods:
   • Aim to include high-calorie and high-protein foods in every meal and snack. This can help combat weight loss and support recovery. Energy-dense foods like milk powder, nuts, ghee (clarified butter), eggs, and sattu (roasted chickpea flour) can be added to meals.
   • Easy-to-eat snacks such as boiled eggs, nuts, sautéed paneer (cottage cheese), or roasted chickpeas can be convenient for doctor visits or chemotherapy sessions.
2. Focus on Vitamins and Minerals:
   • Ensure adequate intake of vitamins and minerals by incorporating a variety of fruits and vegetables into meals. These foods provide antioxidants that support overall well-being.
   • Add vegetables to grain-heavy recipes like poha (flattened rice) or upma. Sweeten foods and deserts with fruits instead of sugar.
3. Stay Hydrated:
   • Adequate fluid intake is crucial, especially if the child experiences vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, buttermilk (chaas), diluted juices, soups, or sattu sharbat to maintain hydration while providing small amounts of nutrients.
4. Adapt to Treatment Side Effects:
   • Children undergoing treatment may have fluctuating appetites. Offering smaller, more frequent meals can help manage this. Establish a routine with three moderate meals and 1-2 nutrient dense snacks daily.
   • Serve soft, cool foods if mouth sores are present; options like smoothies or pudding can be soothing. Avoid spicy or acidic foods that may irritate sensitive mouths.
5. Make Mealtime Enjoyable:
   • Create a positive atmosphere during meals by letting children help with meal preparation or grocery shopping. Dining with family or friends can make eating more enjoyable.
   • Experiment with flavors and temperatures—sometimes cold foods are more appealing than hot ones.

Conclusion

A balanced meal plan for pediatric cancer patients should be tailored to their specific needs, preferences, and treatment side effects. Collaboration with a qualified nutritionist is imperative in providing additional guidance and support as certain foods may need to be avoided at certain treatment phases but added soon after to avoid nutrient deficiencies. 

By focusing on high-calorie, high-protein foods while maintaining a positive eating environment and addressing side effects effectively, caregivers can help children achieve better nutritional outcomes and enhance their quality of life during treatment.