Diabetic meal plan for cancer patients

Support your health during cancer treatment with the Diabetic Meal Plan for Cancer Patients. This plan includes diabetic-friendly meals that are gentle and nutritious, like steamed fish with vegetables, fruit-based smoothies, and soups with lean protein, catering to the unique dietary needs of cancer patients with diabetes.

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Eggs
Fresh spinach
Whole grain bread
Chicken breasts
Mixed greens
Cherry tomatoes
Balsamic vinaigrette
Greek yogurt
Almonds
Blueberries
Salmon fillets
Asparagus
Quinoa
Oatmeal

Almond milk
Strawberries
Honey
Turkey breast
Avocado
Whole wheat tortillas
Carrot sticks
Cottage cheese
Pineapple chunks
Tofu
Mixed vegetables
Brown rice
Granola
Black beans
Corn

Apples
Almond butter
Shrimp skewers
Wild rice
Mashed avocado
Lentil soup
Brussels sprouts
Sweet potatoes
Bell peppers
Onions
Lemon vinaigrette
Nuts
Turkey meatballs
Marinara sauce
Spaghetti squash
Kale
Peanut butter
Celery sticks
Baked potato
Waffles
Tuna
Cucumber
Dried apricots

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Article reviewed

Written by our editorial team.
Published on Feb. 29, 2024.
Updated on Nov 22, 2024.

Meal plan overview

The Diabetic Meal Plan for Cancer Patients is designed to support the nutritional needs of cancer patients with diabetes. It includes nutrient-dense, low-glycemic foods that are easy to digest, such as soft-cooked vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins, providing essential nutrients without exacerbating blood sugar levels.

This plan balances the dietary requirements of cancer treatment with diabetic management, ensuring meals are both nourishing and safe.

Foods to eat

Lean Proteins: Chicken, fish, and plant-based proteins like tofu and lentils.
Low-Glycemic Vegetables: Leafy greens, broccoli, and cauliflower.
Whole Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, and whole grain breads, in moderation.
Antioxidant-Rich Fruits: Berries, apples, and peaches, considering their glycemic index.
Healthy Fats: Avocado, nuts (in moderation), and olive oil.
Hydration: Water, herbal teas, and low-sugar beverages.

✅ Tip

Incorporate anti-inflammatory foods like turmeric, ginger, and leafy greens to help reduce inflammation and support overall health during cancer treatment.

Foods not to eat

High-Sugar Foods: Sweets, candies, and sugary desserts.
Processed Meats: Linked to increased cancer risk.
Refined Carbohydrates: White bread, pasta, and other high-glycemic foods.
Alcohol: Can interfere with cancer treatments and blood sugar control.

Main benefits

The Diabetic Meal Plan for Cancer Patients is designed to provide balanced nutrition for individuals managing both diabetes and cancer. It includes foods high in antioxidants, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates, with careful attention to blood sugar levels and overall nutritional needs during cancer treatment.

🎓 Recommended nutrient breakdown

Fat

Carbs

Protein

Fiber

Other

Food alternatives

To support cancer recovery and manage diabetes, consider these substitutions:

For a lower-sugar fruit, raspberries can replace strawberries in snacks and smoothies.
To boost antioxidants, red cabbage can replace mixed greens in salads.
For a protein-packed option, lentils can be used instead of black beans in soups and salads.
To add variety, spaghetti squash can replace whole wheat spaghetti in pasta dishes.
For a calcium-rich alternative, collard greens can replace spinach in cooked dishes and salads.

How to budget on this meal plan

Bulk-buy protein sources like eggs, chicken breasts, and salmon. Whole grain bread and brown rice are more affordable in larger sizes. Mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and other fresh produce are often cheaper when in season. Greek yogurt and cottage cheese can be bought in larger containers. Consider making your own granola and almond butter for healthier, budget-friendly options.

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Extra tips

Any healthy snack ideas?

Nutritious snacks for diabetics undergoing cancer treatment:

Smoothies with Greek yogurt and berries
Avocado on whole grain toast
Baked apple with cinnamon
Nut butter on whole wheat crackers
Homemade vegetable soup
Scrambled eggs with spinach
Quinoa salad with vegetables

What should I drink on this meal plan?

Diabetic cancer patients should focus on hydration, with water being the foremost choice. Vegetable juices, rich in nutrients, can supplement essential vitamins and minerals. Herbal teas, especially ginger or peppermint, are helpful for managing nausea. Green tea, though rich in antioxidants, should be consumed in moderation due to its caffeine content. Sugary and artificially sweetened beverages are best avoided.

How to get even more nutrients?

Diabetics undergoing cancer treatment require a nutrient-dense diet to support overall health and aid recovery. Opt for easily digestible proteins like cottage cheese, scrambled eggs, and tender fish, which are gentle on the stomach. Soluble fiber sources such as oatmeal can help manage both blood sugar and digestive complications often caused by cancer treatments. Incorporate calorie-dense healthy fats like avocado and olive oil to help meet the elevated energy needs during treatment.

Meal plan suggestions

Diabetic Meal Plan for Cancer Patients

Day 1

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with sautéed spinach and whole grain toast (calories: 300, protein: 15g, carbs: 20g, fat: 10g)
Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette (calories: 350, protein: 25g, carbs: 15g, fat: 15g)
Snack: Greek yogurt with sliced almonds and blueberries (calories: 150, protein: 10g, carbs: 15g, fat: 6g)
Dinner: Baked salmon with roasted asparagus and quinoa (calories: 400, protein: 25g, carbs: 30g, fat: 20g)

Day 2

Breakfast: Oatmeal with almond milk, topped with sliced strawberries and a drizzle of honey (calories: 320, protein: 10g, carbs: 45g, fat: 10g)
Lunch: Turkey and avocado wrap with whole wheat tortilla, served with carrot sticks (calories: 350, protein: 20g, carbs: 30g, fat: 15g)
Snack: Cottage cheese with pineapple chunks (calories: 150, protein: 10g, carbs: 15g, fat: 5g)
Dinner: Stir-fried tofu with mixed vegetables and brown rice (calories: 380, protein: 20g, carbs: 40g, fat: 15g)

Day 3

Breakfast: Greek yogurt parfait with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of granola (calories: 300, protein: 15g, carbs: 35g, fat: 10g)
Lunch: Quinoa salad with black beans, corn, cherry tomatoes, and avocado (calories: 350, protein: 15g, carbs: 45g, fat: 15g)
Snack: Sliced apples with almond butter (calories: 150, protein: 4g, carbs: 20g, fat: 8g)
Dinner: Grilled shrimp skewers with grilled vegetables and a side of wild rice (calories: 400, protein: 25g, carbs: 30g, fat: 20g)

Day 4

Breakfast: Whole grain toast with mashed avocado and sliced tomatoes (calories: 280, protein: 8g, carbs: 35g, fat: 12g)
Lunch: Lentil soup with a side of mixed greens and a slice of whole grain bread (calories: 350, protein: 15g, carbs: 50g, fat: 10g)
Snack: Carrot sticks with hummus (calories: 100, protein: 3g, carbs: 15g, fat: 5g)
Dinner: Baked chicken thighs with roasted Brussels sprouts and sweet potatoes (calories: 380, protein: 25g, carbs: 20g, fat: 15g)

Day 5

Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with diced bell peppers and onions (calories: 300, protein: 15g, carbs: 5g, fat: 20g)
Lunch: Grilled salmon salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and lemon vinaigrette (calories: 350, protein: 25g, carbs: 10g, fat: 20g)
Snack: Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of nuts (calories: 200, protein: 12g, carbs: 20g, fat: 10g)
Dinner: Turkey meatballs with marinara sauce served over spaghetti squash (calories: 380, protein: 25g, carbs: 20g, fat: 15g)

Day 6

Breakfast: Smoothie with kale, banana, and almond milk (calories: 250, protein: 10g, carbs: 35g, fat: 10g)
Lunch: Quinoa and black bean stuffed bell peppers with a side salad (calories: 350, protein: 15g, carbs: 40g, fat: 10g)
Snack: Celery sticks with peanut butter (calories: 150, protein: 4g, carbs: 10g, fat: 8g)
Dinner: Grilled chicken breast with roasted vegetables and a small baked potato (calories: 400, protein: 25g, carbs: 30g, fat: 15g)

Day 7

Breakfast: Whole grain waffles with mixed berries and a dollop of Greek yogurt (calories: 300, protein: 10g, carbs: 40g, fat: 12g)
Lunch: Tuna salad sandwich on whole wheat bread with a side of cucumber slices (calories: 350, protein: 20g, carbs: 30g, fat: 15g)
Snack: Almonds and dried apricots (calories: 200, protein: 6g, carbs: 20g, fat: 12g)
Dinner: Grilled steak with roasted garlic potatoes and steamed broccoli (calories: 450, protein: 30g, carbs: 35g, fat: 20g)

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