Nutrition is a Key Component of Cancer Care

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society recognizes the importance of nutrition support and education from the moment of a cancer diagnosis throughout treatment, and into long-term survivorship. A nutrition plan can support better quality of life, assist in managing side effects, and help retain strength during treatment and recovery. LLS offers free consultations with registered oncology dietitians to patients with any type of cancer diagnosis and their caregivers through its Nutrition Education Service Center (NESC).

With support from the NESC, patients and caregivers can learn about nutrition and cancer, talk to dietitians about nutrition, manage side effects, and get 1:1 support. In addition, the NESC website provides blogs, meals and recipes, information for healthcare professionals, and other valuable resources.

Free nutrition consultations can be scheduled via phone at 877-467-1936 or online at https://llsnutrition.org/nutritionconsult/.

What can you expect during a nutrition consultation?

Consultations last approximately 30 minutes. By speaking to a registered dietitian, you can learn:

• Strategies to improve nutrition and side effects
• Tips for meal planning and grocery shopping
• How to care for a loved one during cancer treatment
• Answers to your nutrition questions
• Questions to ask your healthcare team
• Additional nutrition resources online and in your area

The nutrition consultations are intended for general educational purposes. Due to the nature of the consultations, these services are not available.

• Recommendations for dietary supplements and herbal preparations
• Prescription diet orders or restrictive diets
• Nutrition therapy by tube or IV
• Free meal delivery

At a scheduled date and time, the dietitian will call you at the phone number you provide. Have a pen and paper ready to take notes. First, the dietitian will ask you questions about your current food habits. The dietitian will then offer personalized strategies and tips to improve your nutrition and answer your nutrition-related questions. Consultations last 30 minutes. You can also communicate with the dietitian via email.

The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Inc. offers Nutrition Education Services Center servicesfor information purposes only. It is not intended to substitute for the advice of your healthcare team or provide medical diagnosis, treatment or therapy. Please seek the advice of your healthcare team before making any changes to your medical plan, diet or physical activity.