Very day, a healthy adult should consume approximately 0.8 g of protein/kg body weight. The need for protein increases even twice in some disease states*.
Protein is one of the basic ingredients of the diet, without which the body could not function, because:
is the basic building block of the body
is responsible for the construction and functioning of muscles ,
is a component of enzymes and hormones (regulation of metabolic processes),
transports vitamins and minerals to appropriate places in the body,
is important for the proper functioning of the immune system .
Due to such diverse functions , protein is constantly used by our body, therefore it must be regularly supplied with food. However, this is not always possible with a traditional diet alone.
* Sobotka, L. (2013). Basics of clinical nutrition: Scientifica.
Proteins
Omega 3 fatty acids
Omega-3 is an essential unsaturated fatty acid that the body cannot produce on its own, so it must be supplied through the diet . Their sources are mainly fish, nuts, and vegetable oils (linseed, rapeseed, soybean).
Cancer and the treatment itself contribute to the development of inflammation in the body of an oncological patient, which affects, among others: decreased appetite, nausea, weight loss, including muscle mass, and weakness. This may lead to the development of malnutrition, which may affect the course of cancer therapy. Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation and thus help improve appetite, reduce weight loss and muscle mass, and improve health.
Sometimes meeting the need for protein and omega-3 fatty acids by modifying the traditional diet of an oncology patient is not enough, then the doctor may recommend nutritional support in the form of oral nutritional preparations .
