Why is maintaining adequate calorie intake essential for oncology patients?

Maintaining adequate calorie intake is essential for oncology patients primarily to support overall health and manage side effects of both the cancer and the treatments. Cancer and its treatment can significantly alter metabolism and increase energy expenditure, leading to a higher risk of malnutrition. Ensuring that patients consume enough calories helps maintain their strength, supports immune function, and aids in recovery. Adequate caloric intake also plays a crucial role in managing the side effects of treatment, such as nausea and fatigue, by providing the necessary nutrients to sustain energy levels and promote healing.

While hydration is important, it is not directly tied to calorie intake. Increasing body fat is not typically a goal in oncology nutrition, as excess fat can be counterproductive. Similarly, while hair loss is a common side effect of some treatments, adequate calorie intake does not directly address this issue. Therefore, supporting overall health and managing side effects through sufficient calorie intake is the primary reason for its importance in oncology patients.