Patient Advocate (1000+ posts) Joined: Jan 2009 Posts: 1,844 | Nanjangud,
Her calorie intake is good, protein intake is "ok" (10g/scoop) depending on your mothers weight (1-1.5g/lb of body weight, excuse the non metric measurements as we don't use metrics in the US) with plenty of carbs.
The vitamin profile of Peptamen is good but they are delivered mostly via isolates which are more difficult to digest/absorb in the body. Fiber would be a concern for me as Peptamen doesn't deliver any and may lead to constipation if she's on pain medications. I would worry that the Omega 3 intake would be low as well.
Understand that when the human body has cancer, infection, disease etc, the hormone response that activates our immune system interferes with digestion and absorption. Compounded by the effects that the stress of the cancer experience adds (stress produces Cortisol, which counteracts insulin, further affecting absorption) and this leads to the breakdown of lean muscle mass due to the body's increased need for amino acids due to the hyper-metabolic state caused by your body trying to heal itself from cancer treatments and fight off the disease through immune response. This is a condition known as cachexia, or cancer related wasting syndrome and is the reason proper nutrition is crucial.
Last edited by EricS; 09-12-2012 03:51 AM.
Young Frack, SCC T4N2M0, Cisplatin,35+ rads,ND, RT Mandiblectomy w fibular free flap, facial paralysis, "He who has a "why" to live can bear with almost any "how"." -Nietzche "WARNING" PG-13 due to Sarcasm & WAY too much attitude, interact at your own risk.
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