Dietary patterns of patients with advanced lung or colorectal cancer

Can J Diet Pract Res. 2012 Winter;73(4):e298-303. doi: 10.3148/73.4.2012.e298.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify dietary patterns among patients with advanced cancer. Differences between cancer groups are described, and food groups contributing higher proportions to overall caloric intake are identified. Patients with advanced cancer (n=51) were recruited from a regional cancer centre and completed a three-day dietary record. Food items were categorized according to macronutrient content. After adjustment for body weight, substantial variation in energy intake was observed (range: 13.7 to 55.4 kcal/kg/day). For 49% of patients, protein intake was below recommendations. Overall, patients consumed the largest proportion of their calories from meat (16%), other foods (11%), dessert (9%), fruit (9%), white bread (7%), and milk (7%). Only 5% of patients consumed meal replacement supplements. The results of this descriptive study provide important insights into the dietary habits of patients with advanced cancer. These insights could be translated into the development of effective recommendations for maintaining or improving health and quality of life.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Alberta
  • Cachexia / diet therapy*
  • Cachexia / etiology
  • Cancer Care Facilities
  • Cohort Studies
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / pathology
  • Colorectal Neoplasms / physiopathology*
  • Diet* / adverse effects
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Feeding Behavior*
  • Food, Formulated
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / pathology
  • Lung Neoplasms / physiopathology*
  • Neoplasm Staging
  • Nutritional Requirements