What to eat after chemotherapy to replenish nutrition
Sep 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, food can provide basic nutrition after chemotherapy, while medications can specifically supplement missing nutrients. Foods generally include eggs, fish, chicken, broccoli, and yam; medications typically include compound amino acid capsules, protein powder, vitamin B12 tablets, folic acid tablets, and ferrous gluconate syrup, all of which should be taken under the guidance of a physician.
Generally, after chemotherapy, eating food can provide basic nutrition, while medications can specifically supplement missing nutrients. Foods typically include eggs, fish, chicken, broccoli, and Chinese yam; medications commonly include compound amino acid capsules, protein powder, vitamin B12 tablets, folic acid tablets, and ferrous gluconate syrup, all of which should be taken under a doctor's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:
I. Food
1. Eggs: Rich in high-quality protein and lecithin, they provide raw materials for cell repair and help restore bodily functions. They are best prepared by boiling or steaming for easy digestion.
2. Fish: Contains high-quality protein and Omega-3 fatty acids, with high protein absorption rates that promote tissue repair. Steamed or cooked in soup, fish is ideal for consumption.
3. Chicken: High in protein and iron, it helps replenish energy and improve weakness. Removing the skin before cooking in soups or stews enhances digestibility and nutrient absorption.
4. Broccoli: Rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber, it boosts immunity and promotes intestinal motility. It is best consumed blanched or lightly stir-fried.
5. Chinese Yam: Contains mucilaginous protein and carbohydrates, which strengthen the spleen and nourish the stomach, providing energy and improving poor appetite after chemotherapy. It is suitable for steaming or cooking into porridge.
II. Medications
1. Compound Amino Acid Capsules: Composed of various amino acids, these supplements provide building blocks for protein synthesis. Suitable for individuals with difficulty eating or insufficient protein intake. Must be taken as prescribed by a physician.
2. Protein Powder: Primarily composed of protein, it rapidly supplies high-quality protein and is ideal for patients with weak digestion and absorption or high protein requirements. Should be mixed according to instructions or medical advice.
3. Vitamin B12 Tablets: Contain vitamin B12, which helps treat anemia and neuritis. Suitable for patients with vitamin deficiencies post-chemotherapy. Take as directed on the label.
4. Folic Acid Tablets: Contain folic acid, which participates in red blood cell production and helps manage folic acid deficiency caused by chemotherapy. Use only under a doctor’s supervision.
5. Ferrous Gluconate Syrup: Contains ferrous gluconate to replenish iron stores, used for treating iron-deficiency anemia following chemotherapy. Must be taken according to a prescribed course and under medical supervision.
Daily meals should be light and easy to digest, using a strategy of small, frequent meals. Avoid raw, cold, greasy, or oily foods. Medications should be selected based on test results; protein powder must be taken at the recommended dosage, and all treatments must follow medical advice. If severe loss of appetite, rapid weight loss, or similar symptoms occur, seek medical attention promptly to adjust the nutritional plan.
