Can I eat sweets during chemotherapy if my blood sugar is high?

Jul 03, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My cousin has stomach cancer and has no appetite for meals. He feels like eating something sweet, but he has high blood sugar. Is it okay for him to eat sweet foods during chemotherapy when his blood sugar is already elevated?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
During chemotherapy, it is generally not recommended to consume sweets when blood sugar levels are high. Chemotherapy drugs, while targeting cancer cells, may also damage normal cells, leading to endocrine disorders and subsequently elevated blood glucose levels. At this time, consuming sweet foods would further burden glucose metabolism and be detrimental to blood sugar control. For patients experiencing high blood sugar during chemotherapy, it is recommended to adjust dietary patterns and choose low-sugar, low-fat, high-fiber foods such as whole grains, vegetables, and fruits (opt for low-sugar fruits like grapefruit and peaches) to help maintain stable blood sugar levels. At the same time, close monitoring of blood glucose changes is necessary, and if abnormalities occur, timely medical consultation is advised, along with antihyperglycemic treatment under a physician's guidance.