Food and cancer can be a complicated mix. Treatment often changes appetite, taste, or tolerance, and it can be hard to know what’s best to eat.
Caley Schnaid, Accredited Practising Dietitian at GenesisCare, St Leonards, has been an integral part of my care, helping me navigate food choices with confidence. She shares three simple but powerful tips that can support survivors and carers alike.
Balance nutrition with enjoyment. A nourishing, balanced diet gives your body the strength it needs, but it’s equally important to include foods you genuinely enjoy. Food is fuel, but it should also bring comfort and joy—especially during challenging times.
Get help when eating feels hard. Allergies, intolerances, or food aversions during treatment don’t have to leave you missing out. A dietitian can offer alternatives and ideas to make sure you’re still getting the nutrients your body requires.
Choose food first, supplements second. Aim for a wide variety of fruit, vegetables, grains, and proteins to meet your vitamin and mineral needs. Supplements should only be considered if a deficiency is diagnosed, not as a replacement for a varied diet.
These tips are part of Caley’s commitment to helping people eat well through and beyond cancer treatment.
You’ll have the chance to hear more from Caley at the next What Now program for cancer survivors and carers. The session will be held at St Leonards Library, Meeting Room 2, on Saturday 22 November from 2pm to 4pm. Alongside Caley’s talk, the program will feature wellbeing activities, inspiring stories, and time to connect with others in the cancer community.
So if you’ve ever asked yourself “what now?” On the cancer journey, this event may give you some of the answers—and the encouragement—you’re looking for.
To register please email myself and Caelum Davis at survivorshipnorthernsydney@gmail.com
