Support with nutrition for women receiving chemotherapy for breast cancer

Abstract

Nurses are in a unique position to provide nutritional support and information to women with breast cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy, supporting them with making decisions regarding nutrition and diet. This narrative review evaluated the research evidence relating to: the nutritional challenges experienced during chemotherapy; and the most effective approaches for supporting women with dietary choice. Weight gain was identified as a specific problem for women undergoing chemotherapy. The evidence indicated that information about nutrition and food preparation support may go some way to assisting women in overcoming some of the nutrition related challenges experienced during chemotherapy treatment for breast cancer. However, further research is required to better inform person-centred nursing practice in this area.