During chemo, it’s best to stay hydrated with water, herbal teas, and clear broths, while avoiding caffeine and alcohol for optimal health.
Staying hydrated is crucial during chemotherapy, but treatment side effects can make drinking challenging. The right beverages can help manage symptoms while providing essential nutrients. This guide covers the best options and what to avoid.
Why Hydration Matters During Chemo
Chemotherapy drugs often cause dehydration through side effects like vomiting, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. Proper fluid intake helps flush toxins, reduces fatigue, and maintains organ function. Aim for 8-10 cups daily, adjusting based on your treatment regimen.
Key Benefits of Proper Hydration
- Reduces chemotherapy side effects
- Helps kidneys process medications
- Prevents constipation
- Maintains energy levels
Recommended Drinks During Chemotherapy
1. Water (Plain or Infused)
Plain water is always best, but if taste changes make it unappealing, try:
- Cucumber or mint-infused water
- Room temperature or slightly warm water
- Ice chips for slow hydration
2. Herbal Teas
Caffeine-free options like chamomile or ginger tea can soothe nausea. Avoid very hot temperatures if you have mouth sores.
3. Clear Broths
Warm vegetable or chicken broth provides hydration and electrolytes. For easy preparation, consider using a quality blender to make homemade versions.
4. Diluted Fruit Juices
Mix 1 part juice with 2-3 parts water. Good options include:
| Juice Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Apple | Gentle on stomach |
| White grape | Less acidic |
| Pear nectar | Smooth texture |
5. Electrolyte Solutions
Oral rehydration solutions or homemade versions (1/2 tsp salt + 6 tsp sugar in 1 liter water) help replace lost minerals.
Nutritional Supplement Drinks
When eating is difficult, high-calorie drinks can help maintain weight:
- Commercial nutrition shakes (Ensure, Boost)
- Homemade smoothies with protein powder
- Milk or fortified plant milks
For smoothie preparation, a budget-friendly blender can make this process easier.
Drinks to Avoid During Treatment
- Alcohol: Can interact with medications and worsen dehydration
- Caffeinated drinks: Coffee, tea, and soda act as diuretics
- Acidic juices: Orange, grapefruit, and tomato may irritate mouth sores
- Very hot/cold drinks: Can trigger sensitivity if you have neuropathy
Managing Common Side Effects
For Nausea
Ginger tea, peppermint tea, or small sips of flat ginger ale may help. The American Cancer Society recommends trying clear, cool beverages.
For Mouth Sores
Room temperature or slightly chilled drinks are best. Avoid citrus and carbonation. Nutritional shakes can provide calories when eating is painful.
For Diarrhea
Stick to clear liquids initially, then add oral rehydration solutions. According to Cancer.org, diluted apple juice or weak tea may be better tolerated than water alone.
Creative Hydration Strategies
- Set phone reminders to drink hourly
- Carry a water bottle at all times
- Try popsicles made from juice or electrolyte solutions
- Use straws if mouth sores make drinking painful
When to Call Your Doctor
Contact your care team if you experience:
- Inability to keep liquids down for 24+ hours
- Dark urine or no urination for 12+ hours
- Dizziness when standing
- Rapid weight loss (2+ lbs per day)
Remember that hydration needs vary by individual and treatment type. Your oncology team can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific medications and side effects.
