Gastric Cancer Dietary Restrictions: What Patients Should Avoid

Understanding Dietary Needs for Gastric Cancer Patients
The dietary restrictions for gastric cancer patients vary depending on the stage of their condition and individual health status. Proper nutrition plays a critical role in supporting recovery and minimizing complications.

When Patients Experience Pyloric Obstruction
In cases where gastric cancer leads to pyloric obstruction, food cannot pass from the stomach into the small intestine properly. This often results in severe vomiting after eating. During this stage, patients are typically advised to avoid all oral intake and instead receive nutrients intravenously to maintain energy levels and hydration.

Post-Surgery Dietary Guidelines
For patients recovering from gastric cancer surgery, certain foods should be avoided to prevent irritation and support healing. These include:

1. Cold and Raw Foods – Items such as raw tomatoes, cucumbers, cold water, and frozen treats like ice cream or popsicles can be harsh on the digestive system and should be avoided.
2. Fatty and Greasy Foods – Foods like fried dough sticks, fatty cuts of meat, roasted duck, and pork feet can be difficult to digest and may cause discomfort.
3. Hard-to-Digest Foods – Corn, dumplings, leeks, and glutinous rice are examples of foods that may lead to bloating or abdominal pain and should be excluded from the diet.

These dietary choices can place additional strain on the gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to symptoms such as pain and bloating, which can hinder recovery.

Conclusion
Adhering to appropriate dietary guidelines is essential for gastric cancer patients, especially during treatment and recovery phases. Avoiding problematic foods helps reduce symptoms and supports overall well-being.