Nutrition is one of the few aspects of cancer care that patients can actively influence during treatment. While a mesothelioma diet cannot cure cancer, thoughtful food choices can help support treatment tolerance, maintain strength, and improve overall quality of life. Strategic nutrition also plays an important role in helping patients feel more resilient throughout their mesothelioma journey.
For many people with mesothelioma, nutrition becomes challenging soon after diagnosis. Cancer itself and treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can increase the body’s nutritional demands while simultaneously reducing appetite, energy, and the ability to eat normally. This imbalance puts patients at risk for malnutrition, which can affect recovery, strength, and the ability to complete treatment as planned. Studies suggest that about 30% to 80% of people with cancer are malnourished.
According to Dismore et al., “people living with mesothelioma have a high symptom burden that can affect dietary intake and the development of malnutrition, subsequently impacting patient-related and treatment outcomes.” This highlights why nutrition should be addressed early and revisited often throughout care.
Proper mesothelioma nutrition helps support muscle mass, immune function, and energy levels during treatment. Patients who are adequately nourished often tolerate therapies better, experience fewer complications, and recover more effectively between treatment cycles. According to the American Cancer Society, maintaining adequate calorie and protein intake during cancer treatment is essential for preserving body weight and supporting healing.
Unfortunately, no specific mesothelioma diet and nutrition plan has been shown to extend life expectancy. Proven treatments, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, remain the only methods known to impact survival. Regardless of the dietary choices you make, it is essential to follow the treatment plan prescribed by your oncology team and attend all cancer care appointments. What you eat still matters.
Supporting your body with adequate nutrition helps it cope with treatment side effects, maintain strength, and fight infection. Nutrition is not a replacement for treatment, but it is a powerful supportive tool.
This means that good diet and nutrition should be prioritized as early as possible after a mesothelioma diagnosis, as timely, consistent nourishment helps support treatment tolerance, strength, and quality of life throughout every stage of care. Remember to always consult your oncology team before making major dietary changes.
For a comprehensive overview of diagnosis, treatment options, and support resources, explore our mesothelioma nutrition guide to help you better understand and navigate every step of your care journey.
The American Cancer Society emphasizes that the most important nutritional priorities during cancer treatment are adequate calories, sufficient protein, and a steady intake of essential vitamins and minerals. Rather than focusing on a restrictive “best” diet, patients benefit most from a flexible, nutrient-dense approach.
A general guideline for protein intake during cancer treatment is approximately 1.0–1.5 grams or more of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, depending on individual needs. Complex carbohydrates provide sustained energy, healthy fats add necessary calories, and hydration, aiming for 8–10 glasses of fluids daily, supports digestion and circulation. Adequate fluid intake also helps prevent fatigue, supports kidney function during treatment, and aids the body in managing treatment-related side effects.
Additionally, people often wonder, “What is the best diet for mesothelioma patients?” While individual needs vary, many patients find the Mediterranean diet a helpful framework, as it emphasizes whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and colorful fruits and vegetables. Research also suggests that part of the Mediterranean diet, specifically a natural compound found in olives, may offer potential benefits for people diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Scientists in Italy studied oleuropein, a substance found in olive leaves, and discovered that it can help slow the growth of mesothelioma cancer cells in laboratory settings. The compound appears to work by interfering with how cancer cells communicate and manage calcium, which is important for their growth. Oleuropein is also known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and previous studies have shown it can limit cancer cell growth in lab tests and reduce tumor activity in animal studies.
Based on the general guidelines, recommended food categories include:
| Food Group | Examples |
| Proteins | Chicken, fish, eggs, beans, lentils, Greek yogurt |
| Whole Grains | Brown rice, quinoa, oats, whole-grain bread |
| Fruits and Vegetables | Berries, leafy greens, broccoli, peppers |
| Healthy Fats | Olive oil, avocado, nuts, seeds, fatty fish |
These foods for mesothelioma patients support lung health, help reduce inflammation, and provide the nutrients the body needs during treatment.
Foods for lung health are especially important for people with mesothelioma, as this cancer often affects the lining of the lungs and can impact breathing, energy levels, and overall strength.
Sample meals* may include:
*These are general suggestions only. Individual needs vary, so patients should consult their healthcare team to determine what works best for them.
It is also important to note that the peritoneum is the second most frequent site of origin of mesothelioma after the pleura, and symptoms such as abdominal pain, weight loss, and increased abdominal girth can make eating difficult. Treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma often includes major surgery and chemotherapy delivered directly into the abdomen, which places extra strain on the body and increases the need for proper nutrition to support healing and recovery. It is important to discuss such issues with your oncology team for nutritional support.
During treatment, food choices should prioritize safety and symptom management.
Food Safety for Immunocompromised Patients
Cancer treatments can weaken the immune system, increasing the risk of serious food-borne illness. If you’re wondering what foods you should avoid with mesothelioma, the list below can help guide your choices:
Foods That May Worsen Side Effects
Some foods can exacerbate inflammation or digestive issues:
Alcohol and foods such as grapefruit may interfere with certain medications. Always discuss food–drug interactions with your oncology team.
The American Cancer Society recommends careful food handling, thorough cooking, proper refrigeration, and avoiding any food that smells “off” or appears spoiled.
This sample comprehensive 7-day meal plan for cancer patients provides balanced nutrition to support mesothelioma treatment. Use it as a starting point and adjust based on appetite, preferences, and dietary restrictions.
| Day | Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner |
| 1 | Greek yogurt with berries and granola | Turkey sandwich on whole-grain bread, vegetable soup | Baked salmon, brown rice, steamed broccoli |
| 2 | Oatmeal with banana and walnuts | Chicken-quinoa bowl with mixed vegetables | Whole-grain pasta with marinara and ground turkey |
| 3 | Scrambled eggs, whole-grain toast, avocado | Tuna salad with crackers and fruit | Grilled chicken, sweet potato, green beans |
| 4 | Smoothie with berries, spinach, Greek yogurt, protein powder | Bean and vegetable soup, whole-grain roll | Baked cod, brown rice, roasted Brussels sprouts |
| 5 | Cottage cheese with pineapple and almonds | Chicken Caesar salad, whole-grain crackers | Turkey meatballs, whole-wheat spaghetti, marinara |
| 6 | Whole-grain pancakes with Greek yogurt and berries | Grilled cheese on whole-grain bread, tomato soup | Baked chicken thighs, quinoa, roasted carrots |
| 7 | Breakfast burrito with eggs, beans, cheese | Salmon salad with mixed greens and whole-grain bread | Lean beef stir-fry with brown rice and vegetables |
Each meal provides approximately 400–600 calories and 20–30 grams of protein. Snacks between meals can help meet higher calorie needs. A registered dietitian can help tailor this plan to individual needs.
When full meals feel overwhelming, nutrient-dense snacks can help meet calorie and protein needs. The diet for mesothelioma patients should help enhance quality of life both physically and emotionally.
Many patients and caregivers ask, “What are good snacks for chemo patients?” The best options are easy to eat, nutrient-dense, and supportive of lung and immune health.
High-Protein Snacks — Protein-rich snacks target muscle loss while building muscle strength and promoting natural tissue rejuvenation
Easy-to-Digest Snacks — Foods that are gentle on the digestive tract when experiencing nausea or an upset stomach
Nutrient-Dense Snacks — Beneficial when experiencing a poor appetite
Keeping snacks accessible and eating every 2–3 hours can help manage a fluctuating appetite.
Beyond physical benefits, meals for cancer patients offer emotional comfort and a sense of normalcy during a challenging time.
Eat: Crackers, toast, ginger tea, bland or cold foods
Avoid: Greasy, spicy, sweet, strong-smelling foods, or protein-heavy foods
Eat: High-calorie/protein smoothies, nutrition drinks, yogurt, soups, cheese, and favorite foods
Avoid: Large portions or foods requiring heavy chewing
Eat: Cold foods, tart flavors (lemon, herbs, honey), fruits, cottage cheese, and consider using plastic utensils
Avoid: Previous favorite foods if they taste unpleasant
Eat: Soft foods, applesauce, milkshakes, yogurt, ice cream, pudding, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, gelatin, smoothies, yogurt, or lukewarm foods
Avoid: Acidic, spicy, salty, crunchy, or hot foods
Eat: BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast), broth, crackers, electrolyte drinks, smooth peanut butter, and diluted drinks
Avoid: High-fiber foods, dairy, caffeine, and greasy, spicy, or very sweet foods
Eat: Whole grains (whole-wheat crackers, oatmeal), vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots), fruits (prunes, berries, apples, pears), warm liquids, Greek yogurt, legumes
Avoid: Processed low-fiber foods, excess dairy
For nausea, try small, frequent meals and bland foods. For appetite loss, focus on calorie-dense foods, healthy fats, and supplement drinks like Ensure or Boost. Contact your medical team if you cannot eat or drink for 24 hours, experience severe symptoms, or lose 5% or more of your body weight unintentionally. Healthy meals for cancer patients that minimize discomfort and digestive upset are vital at all stages of treatment.
Registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs), especially those specializing in oncology, provide personalized guidance throughout treatment. They can create customized meal plans, manage side effects, and monitor nutritional status.
Request a referral at diagnosis, during weight loss, or at any time when eating becomes difficult. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover medical nutrition therapy when prescribed by a physician.
To find an RDN, ask your oncologist, check your cancer center, or use the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics referral service at eatright.org.
Guidance with your dietary needs is a beneficial part of the treatment process. Here are a few tips regarding what to ask a nutritionist:
During mesothelioma treatment, many patients and caregivers have questions about how food choices affect strength, side effects, and overall well-being. The following are some of the most common nutrition-related questions patients ask as they navigate mesothelioma care, along with practical, evidence-based guidance to support them throughout treatment.
Yes. Weight loss is common due to increased metabolic demands, reduced appetite, and treatment side effects. Significant or rapid weight loss should be addressed with a dietitian.
Ideally, at diagnosis. However, improving nutrition is beneficial at any point during treatment or recovery.
Nutrition supports the body during treatment but does not cure cancer or directly improve prognosis. It helps patients tolerate therapy, maintain strength, and improve quality of life.
Absolutely. Meal plans can be adapted for allergies, lactose intolerance, vegetarian diets, or religious needs. A dietitian can ensure substitutions still meet nutritional requirements.
Nutrition supports treatment—it doesn’t replace it. Focus on adequate protein and calories, adapt your diet to manage side effects, and seek professional guidance when needed. Start with one or two manageable changes rather than overhauling everything at once.
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Dr. Takeesha Roland-Jenkins is a psychologist, writer, editor, and educator with many years of experience working in the mental health and medical arena. Her writing has been published in the Journal of Instructional Research as well as by Brain Blogger, Between Us Clinic, Consultant360, BrainMass, and The Good Men Project, among others. Her subject areas cover a wide variety of topics that pertain to psychology, mental health, general health and fitness, dietary supplementation, ethnicity-related backlash, and own-group conformity pressure, to name a few. As a former rehabilitation counselor for individuals with physical and learning disabilities, as well as those struggling with substance abuse disorder, she is a strong advocate for encouraging autonomy among individuals with disabilities. In addition, Dr. Roland-Jenkins helps people of all ages foster healthy, fulfilling relationships.