Are You Falling for These Common Dietary Myths During Chemotherapy?
By Arlene-Frances Wu | Senior Nutritionist
Chemotherapy is a common treatment for cancer, but the body is under intense stress throughout the process. Nutritional needs increase significantly, and many patients become confused about what they can or cannot eat. Common questions include:
❓ “Can I eat beef during chemo?”
❓ “Is it okay to eat instant noodles even if they’re high in calories?”
❓ “How should I eat when dining out?”
This article addresses these common concerns with helpful nutrition advice.
Can I Eat Beed During Chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy often leads to protein loss, weakened immunity, and nutrient deficiencies. It can also lower white blood cell counts and damage the mouth and digestive tract, sometimes leading to anemia. For this reason, eating foods high in protein and iron is especially important—and beef is one of the best sources.
While some research links red meat to cancer risks, these risks are often associated with how the meat is cooked, not the meat itself. Harmful compounds such as heme iron, nitrosamines, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and heterocyclic amines (HCAs) are mainly formed through high-heat cooking methods like frying and grilling.
✅ The risks from heme iron and nitrosamines can be reduced by eating enough dietary fiber to support healthy digestion.
✅ PAHs and HCAs are mostly produced through high-heat cooking.
👉 Best practice: Choose lean cuts of beef, avoid deep-frying or grilling, and make sure it’s fully cooked. This provides essential nutrients without placing extra strain on the body.
Instant Noodles Are Quick and High in Calories—Can I Eat Them?
Many patients with low energy or poor appetite may turn to instant noodles for convenience. But nutritionally, there are a few concerns:
❗ High in sodium, fat, and additives
❗ Low in essential nutrients—not ideal for weakened immunity
If you occasionally eat instant noodles, follow these tips:
✅ Choose low-sodium or additive-free options
✅ Check the ingredient list for excess preservatives and saturated fat
✅ Add fresh vegetables, tofu, eggs, or chicken for better balance
✅ Pick high-fiber or whole grain noodles to support gut health
Even if you’re choosing a “healthier” instant noodle, moderation and balanced pairing with other nutritious foods are key. Don’t rely on them as a regular staple.
Dining Out During Chemo: How to Eat Well Outside?
Eating out doesn’t mean giving up on nutrition. With smart choices, you can eat safely and stay healthy. Look for meals that include protein, quality carbohydrates, and fiber, and prioritize low-oil, low-salt, steamed or stewed cooking methods. Here’s an example meal plan:
Boiled Egg + Tomato Whole Wheat Sandwich + Unsweetened Plant Milk + Blueberries
✔️ Whole wheat for fiber and stable blood sugar
✔️ Blueberries offer antioxidants to reduce oxidative stress
✔️ Plant milk without added sugar is easier to digest
Beef or Pork Rice Noodle Soup with Veggies + Hot Lemon Water
✔️ A warm, gentle meal with protein and vegetables
✔️ Beef provides iron, zinc, and B vitamins for energy and recovery
✔️ Lemon water aids digestion and supports vitamin C intake
Tofu Pudding + Kiwi Fruit
✔️ Plant protein from tofu is easy to digest
✔️ Kiwi provides fiber and vitamin C for digestion and immunity
✔️ Low-fat and refreshing — ideal light snack during treatment
Stir-Fried Chicken with Celery & Cashew Nuts + Poached Greens + Rice
✔️ Lean chicken and fiber-rich cashews for balanced nutrition
✔️ Lightly cooked veggies preserve nutrients and limit excess fat
✔️ Rice provides energy to keep you strong
During chemotherapy, eating the right foods is more important than avoiding everything.
Instead of focusing on restrictions, aim to cook and pair ingredients wisely to turn ordinary foods into powerful support for recovery. It’s best to consult a registered dietitian to create a plan tailored to your condition, rather than relying on online myths.
Smart Eating, Better Healing
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