It is important to recognise and treat muscle loss early.3 This is because protecting and preserving muscle is more effective than rebuilding it after significant muscle loss has already happened.
Nutrition and cancer
When you need more support to fight your bigger battles
Your body may need more energy and protein than usual during cancer treatment.1 Cancer and its treatment can also reduce muscle mass.2,3 Making nutrition a priority before, during and after treatment, can help you feel better and keep your muscles stronger.
Muscle loss is common in people with cancer
Up to 3 out of 5 people being treated with
cancer may be affected by muscle loss.3
What is cancer-related muscle loss?
Muscle loss is a reduction in the overall amount of muscle in your body. This can lead to low muscle mass, which means the amount of muscle in your body is lower than average for your age and gender.
Reasons why cancer and its treatment can cause muscle loss:2
Eating less than usual due to symptoms from cancer treatment such as loss of appetite or nausea
Reduced physical activity levels
Increased energy usage by the body
Increased inflammation in the body
Signs of muscle loss
Difficulty doing day‑to‑day activities
Noticeable reduction in the muscle on your arms or legs
Ways to protect and preserve your muscle
Exercise
Exercise can help preserve and improve muscle mass. Strength training (exercise that makes your muscles work harder) will help you most in preventing muscle loss.3
Get enough protein
Protein is the building block of muscles. Aim for at least one protein-rich food at each meal and snack.
Get enough energy
(kilojoules or calories)
Carbohydrate-based foods, as well as fats and oils, are a good source of energy.
Ensure Resources
7 top tips for a healthy heart
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- Title
- Seven top tips for a healthy heart
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Read our seven top heart health tips and start taking steps to protect your heart health today.
- Detail Page Path
Antioxidants: why do we need them?
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- Title
- Antioxidants: why do we need them?
- Description
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Discover more about these molecules, how they can help protect your body's cells against damage and where to find them in your diet.
- Detail Page Path
Key nutrients for muscle health
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- Title
- Key nutrients for muscle health
- Description
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Discover the key nutrients that help maintain muscle strength why these nutrients are so important.
- Detail Page Path
Food for Special Medical Purposes. Use only under medical supervision.
Be aware of the signs of muscle loss and speak with your healthcare professional if you are concerned or suspect you may be experiencing muscle loss.
References: 1. Cancer Council Australia. Nutrition for People Living with Cancer. 2. Arends J, et al. Clin Nutr. 2017;36(5):1187–1196. 3. Kiss N, et al. Nutr Diet. 2020;77(4):416–425.
ANZ.2023.39812.ENS.1 (v1.0).
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