Hello on my first day of treatment

2 replies
184 subscribers
334 views

Hello, I was diagnosed 2 weeks ago with rectal cancer...a shock in some ways and also not...I ignored symptoms for many years.... I'm nearly 45 years old. I'm actually in Greece although from the UK. I've been in Greece for 6 years although I'm not fluent in the language. I'm navigating this whole situation with my husband close by translating for me. But here I am reaching out to other Brits. Nothing can replace speaking with others who speak my language and come from where I come from... especially now as the reality of all this is sinking in. I'm totally confused about what I can and cannot eat! I'm getting advice from every direction and much of it is contradictory. I'm hoping to find some advice and experience here especially about what to eat which seems the most pressing thing right now!

Bye for now!

Kareno62 over 2 years ago

Hi Red Rock and a warm welcome to the board although I’m sorry that you find yourself here. Yes it’s a big support to be able to talk to people in the same boat. We’re all at different stages of treatment or recovery and happy to share advice and experience. Stay away from google - it can be out of date and scary - you can ask anything you want on here and if you click on peoples names then their profile page may show their treatment so far.

As for diet then it’s obviously good to be as fit and healthy as possible to undergo the treatment ahead but having said that, a low residue diet is often advised as it is food that is easy to digest and won’t irritate the bowel and tumour as much. I’ve attached a link below with a few food ideas which may help

https://elht.nhs.uk/application/files/3315/8556/0327/DIET-002-LowFibrelowresiduediet-2019.pdf

The support desk is also available if you have any worries or queries on the number below

Take care

Karen x

Macmillan Support Line - 0808 808 00 00, 7 days a week between 8am-8pm

Mizzle88 over 2 years ago

I've spoken to a dietician recently and it's basically the same as a normal diet - just most things in moderation. I've increased apples, bananas and berries to help with T cell replenishment - also eggs and chicken...I've reduced my red meat to almost nothing (bacon though just one I can't stop!)

Cereals (fortifies) are also good - just got to keep the bowels moving A oh and LOADS of water to keep poo soft!! Every little helps! Good luck!