As important as it is to stay hydrated when you’re well, it’s critically important during chemo. Staying hydrated throughout the day helps flush toxins out of the body. As a result, it reduces treatment side effects such as fatigue, nausea, constipation and weakness.
Many cancer treatment drugs causes dryness to the skin and mouth. When your body doesn’t have enough water, it cannot work the way it should. And fluids have many jobs in your body such as:
- Carries oxygen and nutrients around your body
- Controls your blood pressure and heart rate
- Protects tissues, joints, and organs
- Removes waste and toxins
- Keeps your body temperature steady
How To Stay Hydrated During Chemo and Other Cancer Treatments
Moreover, side effects like diarrhea and vomiting can make you lose a lot of fluid. So can the radiation treatments and medications. This is why it’s super important to stay hydrated during chemo and other cancer treatments.
To avoid dehydration, make sure you drink enough water before, during, and after your treatment. The following are a few ways you can stay on track with your daily fluid intake.
1. Carry a Water Bottle
Carrying a water bottle is one of the most effective ways to hydrate throughout the day. Not only does it help you stay mindful, but it also makes it easy to remember to sip water. Opt for a reusable bottle made from BPA-free material. That way, while safeguarding your health, you are also reducing your environmental impact.
But did you know that you can get dehydrated and yet not feel thirsty? While 8 glasses of liquid a day is the general rule, more may be necessary if you’re experiencing vomiting and diarrhea. However, it’s always a good idea to ask your doctor how much sounds right for you.
2. Eat Hydrating Foods
Foods count too. For example, vegetables, gelatins, fruits, and frozen popsicles all have liquids. Some of the best foods with high water content that’s also healthy for you are broccoli, watermelon, and lettuce.
3. Stick With Hydrating Drinks
When it comes to staying hydrated during chemo, choosing the right drinks is equally important as drinking enough water. Although water is the best source for hydration, there are other beverages that can also contribute to your fluid intake. However, be cautious of which drinks you choose, as some beverages can actually dehydrate you.
One such miscreant of dehydration is alcohol. Since alcohol is a diuretic, it increases urine production and can lead to dehydration. Therefore, it’s important to drink alcohol in moderation and to balance it with plenty of water.
Soda is another dehydrating drink. Not only does it cause blood sugar to spike, but it does not provide healthy calories. Moreover, it can contribute to weight gain. You might be thinking that’s a good thing since you’ve lost weight due to cancer treatments. But gaining weight from empty calories that contain no nutritional value is not a healthy way to gain a few pounds back.
4. Suck On Ice Chips
If you can’t keep anything down, or don’t want to drink or eat anything, try ice chips. Even just a few at a time will give you a little liquid. Even though it takes a lot to add up to a glass of water, every little bit helps.
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DISCLAIMER: The content in this blog is for informational purposes only. And not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition or replace your healthcare professional’s advice and guidance. If you suspect a medical condition, please seek medical attention immediately.
