Staying Hydrated During Cancer Treatment

March 15th, 2022 | Cancer

Water is Important, Even When You Have Cancer

Cancer treatment can be a draining experience. After your treatment, you will feel exhausted and may even experience some nausea and vomiting. Taking care of your body during your cancer treatment will ensure that you make it through as best you can with as little discomfort as possible. Put the right stuff in your body so that you can minimize the difficulty that comes with cancer treatment.

Why is it important to stay hydrated?

Staying hydrated during your cancer treatment is one of the best things you can do to minimize discomfort. Cancer treatments are often accompanied by nausea and vomiting. When you vomit, you expel a large number of body’s fluids. It’s important to replace these fluids so that you feel your best.

Staying hydrated can reduce muscle soreness, help with exhaustion, and even ease feelings of nausea. Your body uses water as fuel to keep everything moving properly. When you stay hydrated, your muscles and organs can work more efficiently and keep you from feeling even worse after a treatment.

Hydration looks different for everyone. Depending on your height, weight, diet, and age, the number of fluids you need to drink will vary. There is no magic number, but it is essential to always drink when you are thirsty and attempt to get fluids in your body frequently throughout the day.

What to drink to stay Hydrated

Water

The obvious answer is water. Water is a pure substance that will hydrate you without triggering or worsening feelings of nausea. Water can help ease aches and pains after a treatment. Drinking water before treatment can also help reduce any side effects that come after treatment.

Sports Drinks

Provided they are not too sugary, sports drinks are a great option after a treatment. Sports drinks often contain electrolytes and additional nutrients that can help your body recover. Consider a bland flavor to help combat any nausea and reduce the chances that your drink worsens your nausea.

Herbal Teas

Herbal teas are a great option because they are soothing, and many options can help combat nausea. Consider a ginger or peppermint tea if you are struggling with an upset stomach. The warm liquid can help relax your stomach and have you feeling hydrated and soothed in no time.

What not to drink when staying hydrated

Caffeine

When trying to stay hydrated after cancer treatment, caffeinated beverages are not your friend. Stay away from sodas, coffee, and energy drinks. Caffeine is a diuretic that can speed up dehydration by pulling more water out of your body. Caffeine may seem like a good option for a little pick me up, but it could leave you feeling more exhausted in the long run.

Alcohol

Much like caffeine, alcohol is a diuretic that can leave you more dehydrated than you were beforehand. Alcohol could add to your nausea and may even induce vomiting. When trying to stay hydrated after cancer treatment, alcohol is not the best solution.