Navigating Nutrition: A Guide for Cancer Patients
One of the most pressing questions for newly diagnosed cancer patients is, “What should I eat?” Amid the whirlwind of diagnoses, treatments, and emotions, dietary choices can feel overwhelming. To address this, the Marshall Cancer Care Center has introduced a vital resource: a registered dietitian dedicated to guiding patients toward healthier eating habits.
The Role of a Registered Dietitian
Meet Allison Sisk, a registered dietitian with a Master of Science degree in human nutrition from the University of Alabama, along with specialized training in oncology from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. At Marshall Medical Centers, Allison provides personalized consultations, aiming to empower patients during their treatment journey.
Brandon Evans, director of the Cancer Center, states, “As a new service, we are exceptionally excited to offer more holistic care with nutritional planning. This facilitates better nutritional states, which can help patients concentrate on overcoming their disease.”
How Can a Dietitian Assist Patients?
Developing a Nutritional Plan
One of the primary roles of a dietitian is to create tailored nutritional plans. Sisk takes the time to sit with patients, assessing their individual needs and preferences. Together, they can identify dietary items that support the necessary calorie, protein, and hydration intake essential for recovery.
Education and Counseling
Sisk also focuses on educating patients about cancer-specific dietary interventions. These insights can optimize daily nutrition and help individuals make informed choices about what to eat, mitigating some of the overwhelming nature of dietary decisions.
Medical Nutrition Therapy
The dietitian provides research-based medical nutrition therapy throughout all stages of care—before, during, and after treatment. This approach ensures that patients receive continuous support as their dietary needs evolve alongside their treatment.
Managing Side Effects
Nutrition plays a key role in managing side effects associated with cancer treatment. Sisk offers practical nutrition tips aimed at alleviating common symptoms, allowing patients to feel more in control of their health and wellness.
Enhancing the Menu
Beyond individual consultations, Sisk also works to enrich the overall menu options available to patients. She shares healthy meal and snack recipes, making nutritious eating more accessible. Additionally, Sisk provides valuable tips for grocery shopping, empowering patients to make healthier choices in their everyday lives.
Understanding the Importance of Nutrition
“Nutrition plays a very important role pre-, during, and post-oncology treatment,” Sisk emphasizes. This holistic approach reflects an understanding of how vital proper nourishment is during such a critical time, helping to bolster the body’s resilience against the disease.
Professional Background and Expertise
Allison Sisk brings considerable experience from her previous role at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Atlanta. Originally from Idaho, she relocated to Alabama with her husband, Dr. Chad Sisk, a gastroenterologist at Marshall North. Reflecting on her earlier work, she shares, “It was such a rewarding job. It was a truly great experience.” This background in a fast-paced oncology environment equips her with insights that directly benefit the patients at Marshall.
A Personal Approach to Healthy Living
Outside her professional life, Sisk leads an active lifestyle. She’s an avid runner, often participating in half marathons, and enjoys the scenic trails around Guntersville Lake. While she prioritizes healthy eating in her personal life, she advocates for balance. “I try to focus on foods that are going to make me feel good and nourish my body,” she states. Yet, she believes in the importance of occasional indulgence, remarking, “I still think it’s important to indulge in sweet treats.”
Conclusion
The introduction of a dedicated dietitian like Allison Sisk at the Marshall Cancer Care Center represents a significant leap toward integrating nutrition into cancer care. By aligning dietary habits with the needs of patients, the center takes a holistic approach that not only focuses on the physical body but also caters to the emotional and psychological aspects of facing cancer. It embodies a promise of hope and healing through informed dietary choices.