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Living well: healthy eating 
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Healthy eating is an important component of prehab. You have the power to take some control of your journey with cancer by eating well before, during and after treatment. Find out how small changes to what you eat can make a big difference to how you feel over time in this video. 

Summary of key points

1

It is normal to have a range of emotions when you are told you have cancer, such as fear, numbness, anger and sadness. If you had struggled with your mental health before cancer, you may need to take some early steps to protect your mental health.

2

If you ever feel you’re at breaking point, seek help immediately by calling NHS 111, contacting your GP for an urgent appointment, or calling an urgent mental health helpline, such as Samaritans. 

3

Try to drink six to eight glasses of fluid a day, limiting juices and smoothies and avoiding alcohol as much as possible. 

4

Focusing on your mental wellbeing before starting treatment can help you feel prepared and reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. It’s ok to ask for help and support at any time, however you may be feeling – don’t feel you have to wait until you’re struggling, or until you’re offered support.

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This patient video has been organised and fully funded by Bristol Myers Squibb under a collaborative initiative with Macmillan Cancer Support, whose advice in helping to develop the content of this video including engagement with people with lived experience of cancer is hereby acknowledged.

References