Can patients with stomach cancer drink milk?

Generally, whether gastric cancer patients can drink milk should be determined based on their specific medical condition and physical status. If the patient is in good physical condition without dietary restrictions, usually a small amount of milk consumption is acceptable. However, if the patient's physical condition is poor or there are special dietary restrictions, milk consumption is not recommended. Detailed explanations are as follows:

If the patient's gastric cancer is stable and the physical condition is good without gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, a small amount of milk consumption is usually acceptable. Milk is nutritionally rich, containing essential nutrients such as proteins and calcium. Drinking milk in moderation can help enhance immunity, promote physical recovery, and thus benefit gastric cancer patients.

However, if the patient's condition is unstable, or if they have recently undergone radiotherapy, chemotherapy, or surgical treatment and are in poor physical condition, particularly if they are lactose intolerant and experience severe diarrhea or abdominal pain, milk consumption should be avoided as much as possible. This is because milk contains a relatively high amount of lactose, excessive consumption of which may increase the gastrointestinal burden, impair digestion, and hinder recovery.

When drinking milk, gastric cancer patients should choose milk at room temperature and avoid refrigerated or frozen milk to prevent gastrointestinal irritation and worsening of discomfort. Meanwhile, patients should maintain a positive mindset during treatment and avoid excessive fear of the disease.