Nutrition Services

Optimal nutritional status is an important goal in the management of individuals diagnosed with cancer. The Registered Dietitians at The Cancer Center at Ball Memorial Hospital are available to help you with a variety of health and nutrition related issues.

Side effects of radiation typically start around the second or third week of treatment and peak about two-thirds of the way through treatment. After radiation therapy ends, most side effects last two to three more weeks (but some may last longer). Depending upon the area of the body being treated, side effects may vary. If you or your doctor feel that any nutrition related issues may be a problem during treatment, it is important to talk to a Registered Dietitian as soon as possible.

Eating well while receiving radiation therapy can help you:

Feel better

• Keep up your strength and energy
• Keep up your weight and your body's store of nutrients
• Tolerate treatment-related side effects
• Decrease your risk of infection
• Heal and recover quickly
• Maximize quality of life

Nutrition therapy may include the following:

• Nutritional supplements.
• Enteral nutrition (tube feeding).
• Other changes in the diet, such as eating small meals throughout the day and choosing certain kinds of foods.

If you would like to see a Dietitian please let the nursing staff know.

Radiation Oncology

The Cancer Center at

Ball Memorial Hospital

2401 W. University Ave.

Muncie, IN  47303

(765) 747-3148