Nutritional Guidelines for Melanoma Patients

Introduction

Proper nutrition plays a vital role in supporting melanoma treatment and recovery. This guide provides evidence-based dietary recommendations to help maintain strength and support your immune system during treatment.

Key Dietary Principles

Anti-inflammatory Foods

• Dark leafy greens (spinach, kale, collards)
• Fatty fish rich in omega-3s (salmon, mackerel, sardines)
• Berries (blueberries, strawberries, blackberries)
• Nuts and seeds (walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds)

Immune-Supporting Foods

• Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts)
• Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits)
• Mushrooms (shiitake, maitake, reishi)
• Garlic and onions

Foods to Limit or Avoid

• Processed meats
• Refined sugars
• Excessive alcohol
• Trans fats

Nutritional Supplements

Always consult your oncologist before starting any supplements

• Vitamin D3 (if deficient)
• Omega-3 fatty acids
• Probiotics

Hydration Guidelines

• Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily
• Include herbal teas
• Monitor urine color (pale yellow indicates good hydration)

Special Considerations

• Adjust diet based on treatment side effects
• Eat small, frequent meals if experiencing nausea
• Choose soft foods if experiencing mouth sores

When to Contact Your Healthcare Team

• Significant weight changes
• Severe appetite loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Persistent nausea or vomiting

Note: This plan should be individualized with your healthcare team based on your specific needs and treatment protocol.