For children battling cancer, maintaining proper nutrition during treatment is essential to support recovery, reduce side effects, and promote overall health. While much attention is often given to protein, fats, and calories, one crucial nutrient that often flies under the radar is fiber. Adequate dietary fiber can significantly alleviate common treatment-related issues and enhance a child’s quality of life during their cancer journey.

Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot fully digest. It is primarily found in plant-based foods and comes in two main types: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water, forming a gel-like substance that can help regulate blood sugar levels and lower cholesterol. It is found in foods like oats, apples, carrots, and legumes. Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, adds bulk to stool and helps food pass more quickly through the digestive system, which can assist with regularity. This type of fiber is found in whole grains, nuts, and many vegetables.

During cancer treatment, children often face digestive issues, such as constipation, diarrhea, and irregular bowel movements. Including fiber in their diet can address many of these challenges and offer additional health benefits.

Managing Constipation
Constipation is a common side effect of cancer treatments like chemotherapy and certain pain medications. Reduced physical activity, dehydration, and stress can also contribute to this issue. Insoluble fiber holds water and increases stool weight, helping ease constipation. Foods rich in insoluble fiber, such as whole grains, nuts, and seeds, can help maintain regular digestion. However, to avoid bloating or gas, it’s recommended to increase fiber intake gradually. Since insoluble fiber works in conjunction with water, inadequate hydration can lead to even more constipation, as the fiber may dry out the stool. Therefore, adequate water intake is essential when increasing dietary fiber.

Relieving Diarrhea
Diarrhea can also result from chemotherapy, radiation, or infections due to a weakened immune system. In this case, soluble fiber is beneficial. Found in foods like oats, bananas, and sweet potatoes, soluble fiber absorbs excess water in the intestines and forms a gel-like substance that slows digestion, regulating stool consistency. This can help control diarrhea, reduce discomfort, and prevent dehydration, a serious concern for children already facing compromised health.

Supporting Gut Health
A healthy digestive system is essential for absorbing nutrients needed for recovery, and fiber plays a pivotal role in maintaining gut health. Fiber serves as food for beneficial gut bacteria, which produce short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that help protect the gut lining, reduce inflammation, and provide bonus calories. A healthy gut microbiome can also support the immune system, a critical advantage for pediatric cancer patients who often have reduced immunity due to treatments.

Stabilizing Blood Sugar Levels
Cancer treatments can affect a child’s appetite, leading to fluctuations in food intake and potential weight changes. Soluble fiber helps stabilize blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream. This can prevent sudden spikes or drops in blood sugar, reducing fatigue and irritability.

Improving Appetite and Satiety
Many children undergoing cancer treatment experience changes in appetite, either losing interest in food or craving less nutritious options. Fiber-rich foods, particularly those high in soluble fiber, help children feel full longer, which can prevent overeating or choosing high-sugar, low-nutrient foods. Balancing fiber intake can also support healthy weight management, whether the goal is to maintain weight or prevent excessive weight loss.

Practical Ways to Include Fiber in a Pediatric Cancer Diet

Incorporating fiber into a child’s diet during cancer treatment requires careful consideration, especially if they are experiencing digestive side effects. Here are some practical, easy-to-digest options:

• Smoothies: Blend fiber-rich fruits like bananas, apples, and berries with whole grains and seeds like oats or flax seeds for a nutrient-dense, easily digestible smoothie.
• Whole Grain Rotis and Porridges: Make millet-based porridges and add millet flour to regular roti flour to increase fiber content in daily meals.
• Soups: Fiber-rich vegetables like carrots, peas, and lentils can be added to soups for a nutrient-packed, easy-to-eat meal.
• Snack on Fruits: Offer fiber-rich fruits like apples, pears, or oranges. Some fruits can be eaten with the peel on for maximum fiber content (Note: Consult a nutritionist to confirm if this is ok, as certain treatment side effects may temporarily limit eating fruits with peels.)
• Avoid fruit and vegetable juices as they lack fiber and can fill the stomach with minimal energy and nutrients.
• Avoid Processed Flours: Limit intake of bread and cereals made with processed flours like maida which is devoid of its fiber.

Balancing fiber intake with hydration and monitoring symptoms can make a significant difference in a child’s comfort and well-being during cancer treatment. Although fiber is often overlooked in nutrition for pediatric cancer patients, its benefits for digestive health, immune support, and symptom management make it an essential component of a balanced diet. By thoughtfully incorporating the right types of fiber, parents and caregivers can help children manage common side effects, improve nutrient absorption, and support their overall recovery.