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Eating Right Matters
Everyone needs the right nutrients to stay healthy. This can be a challenge for people living with multiple myeloma.
Here are some things to keep in mind:
Remember, there is no specific diet for multiple myeloma, but eating a healthy, balanced diet can help with your general health
Be aware that multiple myeloma and its treatments may make it difficult to eat right, but there are steps you can take to help
Always follow your healthcare team’s advice on foods to avoid and other nutritional issues
Always ask your doctor before starting a new diet or exercise program and before taking any vitamins or nutritional or herbal supplements
Multiple myeloma and overcoming challenges to eating a balanced diet
What's in your way?
- You may lose your appetite and not want to eat.
- You may eat too much and gain unwanted weight.
- You may experience symptoms that make eating hard
(eg, nausea and vomiting, loose stools or constipation, a sore or dry mouth).
What may help?
Try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day
Consider walking or doing light exercise to help increase your appetite if your doctor gives you the go-ahead
Drink fluids in the types and amounts suggested by your healthcare team
Find out if there's medication or other ways to ease mouth sores or loss of appetite
Ask to see a dietitian who can help with your nutrition needs
Eating right matters
This basic guide from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion shows you how to fill your plate with a healthy balance of foods from different food groups.
Remember: Always check with your doctor before starting a diet or exercise program or before taking any vitamins (like vitamin D, calcium, or iron) or herbal or nutritional supplements. Only your doctor can tell you what’s safe for you. Ask your doctor to refer you to a dietitian for a more in-depth nutritional plan if needed.
Learn more about eating right from the American Cancer Society
Nutrition for the Person With Cancer During Treatment:
A Guide for Patients and Families >
Nutrition and Physical Activity During and After Cancer Treatment:
Answers to Common Questions >
Information about these independent organizations is provided as an additional resource for obtaining information related to multiple myeloma. It does not indicate endorsement by Bristol-Myers Squibb Company of an organization or its communications.
Your healthcare team is your best source of information.
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