What should patients with rectal cancer eat?
Nov 14, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
Rectal cancer patients should generally consume vegetables rich in dietary fiber, high-quality protein foods, easily digestible whole grains, mild fresh fruits, and light soups. Protein is an essential nutrient for tissue repair and immune system support, making it beneficial for rectal cancer patients. Examples include fish, chicken, eggs, and soy products.
For patients with rectal cancer, daily diets should generally include vegetables rich in dietary fiber, high-quality protein sources, easily digestible whole grains, mild fresh fruits, and light soups. Specific details are as follows:
1. Vegetables rich in dietary fiber: These vegetables promote intestinal motility, help maintain regular bowel movements, and reduce the burden on the digestive tract. Common examples include spinach, celery, broccoli, and carrots. It is recommended to cook them until soft or chop them finely to avoid irritating the intestines with coarse textures.
2. High-quality protein foods: Protein is essential for tissue repair and immune support, making it beneficial for rectal cancer patients. Examples include fish, chicken, eggs, and soy products. Opt for light cooking methods such as steaming or boiling.
3. Easily digestible whole grains: Whole grains are rich in B vitamins and dietary fiber, but easily digestible varieties should be chosen, such as millet, oats, and soft corn. Cooking them into porridge or soft meals helps provide energy while avoiding intestinal discomfort caused by overly coarse fiber, thus maintaining stable bowel function.
4. Mild fresh fruits: Fruits supply vitamins and hydration, but overly sour, sweet, or hard-textured types should be avoided. Suitable options include apples, bananas, and papayas. Apples can be consumed after being steamed, and ripe bananas are preferable to minimize intestinal irritation while providing necessary nutrients and improving appetite.
5. Light soups and broths: Soups help maintain hydration and are easily absorbed, making them ideal for daily consumption. Examples include vegetable soup, chicken soup, and fish soup. Skim off excess fat when preparing to avoid greasiness, which helps replenish fluids and electrolytes while reducing digestive strain.
If rectal cancer patients experience reduced appetite, diarrhea, or other discomforts during treatment, they should adjust their diet promptly and consult their doctor. Professional nutritional guidance may be necessary to ensure balanced nutrition.
