Medical Nutrition Therapy

Balanced nutrition is vital for pancreatic cancer patients. The pancreas is an organ that aids in digestion of food and regulates blood glucose levels, which means that digestion is likely to be affected by pancreatic cancer.

When a tumor is present in the pancreas, the body’s natural ability to produce or release enzymes for digestion is impaired and may cause weight loss, nausea, diarrhea, and indigestion. Painful gas, bloating, and occurrence of pale or fatty bowel movements are common symptoms of reduced enzyme function and should not be ignored. Insulin production may also be impacted by a pancreatic tumor. Because insulin regulates blood glucose levels, hyperglycemia, and increased risk of diabetes are additional complications that may occur.

Fortunately, treatments are available including supplementation of pancreatic enzymes and insulin. Diet choices are also influential and can make supplementation of enzymes and hormones such as insulin even more effective. Because differences in tumor type and location impact which nutrition interventions are most appropriate, meeting with a dietitian for an individualized diet evaluation may help minimize complications of pancreatic cancer.

Depending on treatment, nutritional needs may change over time and discussion of diet and symptoms with a dietitian will help a patient anticipate problems before they occur, preventing delays in treatment. Seeking nutritional help at the onset of treatment will help increase self-awareness of digestive function, improve ability to eat, minimize side-effects, promote healing, and improve quality of life.

If you are interested in making an appointment with a dietitian at the SCCA, request a consult or call (206) 288-1148.