Nutrition After CAR T-Cell Therapy

After CAR T-cell therapy, you may have lack of appetite or nausea. It is important to report your symptoms to your care team – they may be able to give you medication to help. It is important to your recovery and health to drink plenty of water and eat nutritious foods.

It is very important to stay hydrated to maintain the health of your kidneys. Drink at least 2 liters of fluid per day. Aim for non-caffeinated beverages. CAR T-cell therapy may cause you to feel different about eating certain foods for a short time. Our nutritionists can help you make sure you get proper nutrition and help with food choices. To speak with a nutritionist, please call: 617-632-3006.
 
Tips for managing lack of appetite and/or nausea:

• Eat small amounts of food many times throughout the day (even if it is the same type of food).
• If you have diarrhea, try to eat soup or clear broth, diluted clear juices, warm bland cereal, scrambled eggs, or plain crackers.
• If you have persistent or multiple episodes of diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, call your team immediately. 
• If your stomach is upset, try to eat dry foods like plain crackers, toast, lukewarm soup or broth, gelatin, or warm, bland cereal.
• Avoid foods/smells that make you feel nauseous. Try cold foods or foods that do not smell strongly (such as breakfast bars, cereal, or fruit).

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