Chemotherapy suppresses your immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.
This article provides examples of foods to avoid while on chemo and other precautions you should take.
Many people experienceneutropenia related to chemotherapy.
Jodie Louie / Moment / Getty Images
Neutropenia refers to a reduced number of white blood cells called neutrophils.
These are white blood cells that fight off bacteria that enter the body.
Chemotherapy can change that.
Raw or undercooked foods can actually make you sick.
Does My White Blood Cell Count Matter?
There will be times during chemo when yourwhite blood cell countis higher or lower than others.
Similarly, avoid any delicatessen or self-serve salad bars.
Food-Prep Awareness
Perishable foods should not be left out for grazing.
It’s OKand actually encouragedto use multiple spoons, cutting and preparation surfaces, and pans while cooking.
Wood can harbor bacteria despite how well you wash it.
Swap rare beef for some well-cooked poultryat least until your chemotherapy is over.
Remember: PICCY
This can be a lot to remember.
Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion: HealthyPeople.gov.Food safety.
Johns Hopkin Medicine.Cancer diet: foods to add and avoid during cancer treatment.
Stanford Medicine.Food safety during cancer treatment.
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.Diet guidelines for immunosuppressed patients.
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Handwashing facts.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Preventing infections in cancer patients.
