Build up diet - When you are not eating well

Up to 80% of people having treatment for cancer may lose weight unintentionally or have difficulty eating enough food to get the nutrition they need. If this is you, healthy eating is unlikely to be the best diet in the short term to help you.

A 'build up diet' is higher in calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals. It encourages weight regain where possible.

Some people are concerned that a build-up diet doesn’t seem 'healthy.' Gaining enough energy and protein from your diet is the key priority. When you are having treatment for cancer, it's vital to aim to maintain your weight and your nutritional intake because losing weight is harmful.

If you can combine healthy eating and build up diets, please do so, but this is often challenging for many people who are struggling to eat during cancer treatment. In the longer term, if you regain your weigh and start eating well again, you can return to healthy eating.

 

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