When kids are diagnosed with cancer, it can feel overwhelming, not just for them but for their families, too. One important aspect of their care is what they eat. A healthy diet can help during treatment. However, getting children excited about nutritious food can be a challenge. Studies show that up to 58% of children with cancer in India are malnourished at the time of diagnosis, which can increase complications, prolonged hospital stays and reduce survival rates. We spoke to experts who explained how nutrition must be integrated into every stage of paediatric oncology care, from diagnosis to recovery.
According to a 2023 study, children with cancer face a significant risk of both short-term and long-term nutritional issues due to their illness and the side effects of various treatments. Their nutritional status can impact key clinical outcomes, including overall survival, event-free survival, treatment tolerance, infection risk, and quality of life.
Fun Ways to Encourage Healthy Eating in Children Fighting Cancer
Innovative Strategies for Nutritional Engagement
Innovative strategies are key. Gamifying nutrition with activities like food bingo or reward-based charts makes eating fun and encourages healthy habits. Healthcare providers and caregivers must work closely to create a supportive environment.
According to the American Childhood Cancer Organization, children need more calories per pound than adults to support healthy growth and development. However, kids with cancer face an added challenge; they often require even more calories to supply their bodies with the vital energy needed to combat the disease and repair damaged tissues.
"Including familiar cultural foods, such as khichdi or ragi-based porridge adds comfort while meeting nutritional goals. Using storytelling or favourite characters to introduce healthy foods also makes nutrition engaging and easy to understand for children," said Purnota Dutta Bahl, Founder and CEO, Cuddles Foundation (holistic nutrition for childhood cancer).
Also Read: Weight Loss In Cancer Patients: Expert Explains Why It Happens And How To Deal With It
The Importance of Compassionate Care
Most importantly, every step must be guided by compassion. Caregivers and nutritionists should adapt diets based on the child’s changing needs without stress. “When children feel understood and supported, they are more likely to stay motivated and build healthy eating habits that not only aid recovery but also benefit them long after treatment ends. Together, we can ensure that nutrition becomes an empowering part of their fight against cancer,” emphasised Bahl.
Creative Approaches to Healthy Eating
“Promoting healthy eating in paediatric oncology care requires a combination of creativity, patience, and empathy. Beyond fulfilling nutritional requirements, it is essential to provide children with a sense of involvement by offering suitable food choices and fostering enjoyable mealtime experiences, even amidst the complexities of treatment,” said Nikita Mahakal, Head of Training, Cuddles Foundation.
Also Read: Paediatric Cancer: Expert Explains 5 Types Of Paediatric Cancer, Their Symptoms, And Treatment
Involving Children in Decision-Making
"Involving children in decision-making, such as selecting fruits, choosing between two food options within dietary guidelines, or participating in simple meal preparation with caregivers enhances their engagement," added Mahakal. Nutritionists can initiate interaction in the OPD area through playful activities, including food art, games around food or colour-themed meals, to spark interest.
Building Rapport and Positive Reinforcement
"Establishing rapport with children is crucial. Actively engaging them during counselling sessions and diet planning and using child-friendly language to explain the role of specific foods or interventions, helps reinforce the importance of nutrition in recovery," highlighted Mahakal.
Positive reinforcement, sharing success stories, reward charts for trying new foods, and offering stickers further contribute to a positive food environment, encouraging children to eat mindfully and joyfully.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your own professional if you are dealing with any health issues to avoid complications.]
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