6 Superfoods for Cancer Patients

2 Sources of Protein

Making sure you get enough of the right kind of protein (preferably not from meat or dairy) is essential to keeping your strength up. Almond butter is a delicious source of protein (5 grams in one serving) -- so tasty you'll enjoy it even if you're dealing with nausea, taste change, or loss of appetite as a side effect of your treatment. Almonds also contain benzaldehyde, which researchers in Japan have demonstrated to be toxic to cancer cells. Try spreading it on whole-grain toast or an apple for a high-energy snack that also delivers a healthy dose of fiber.

Recommended serving size: 2 tablespoons; 200 calories

Packing 9 grams of protein and 7.8 grams of fiber in each serving, lentils are pint-sized powerhouses. While all beans are good sources of protein and fiber, lentils are among the easiest to digest and are a good way to increase your fiber intake without the usual accompanying gas and bloating. Lentils can also be cooked to be as bland or as flavorful as you like, accommodating a wide range of tastes. To serve, boil in salted water until tender (about 20 minutes), then drain and toss with olive oil, a splash of vinegar, and diced raw carrots to make a simple lentil salad.

Recommended serving size: 1/2 cup cooked; 115 calories