A reminder about protein intake after muscle loss.

Cancer and cancer treatment can result in the loss of muscle mass, which in turn can make activities of daily living harder. One way of combating this is through dietary intake. If you have experienced a loss of muscle mass from cancer treatment, here are some general tips that may help recovery (alongside physical activity):

• It is important to ensure that you consume sufficient energy and protein in your diet, especially if you have lost muscle mass through treatment.

• You should also aim to consume 1.5 grams of protein for each kg body weight. e.g. if you are 70kg you should aim for between 70 and 105 grams of protein each day. Protein intake is to support good muscle health.

• Try to include a source of protein at main meals and, if possible, to snack on protein rich foods across the day. At mealtimes, try to ensure that you always eat the proteins.

• To ensure you are getting enough energy, you should aim to consume 125 kilojoules for each kg of body weight. e.g. if you weigh 70kg you should aim for around 8750 kilojoules each day.

This information was borrowed from some dietitians I work with on a rehabilitation trial. For broader nutrition after cancer advice please see the Cancer Council resource here: Nutrition for People Living with Cancer