How can you gain weight and maintain muscle mass with non-small cell lung cancer without becoming flabby?
Gaining healthy weight while maintaining muscle mass involves focusing on protein-rich foods and incorporating resistance exercise into your routine.
Nutrition strategies:
* Work with an oncology dietitian to create Show Full Answer
How can you gain weight and maintain muscle mass with non-small cell lung cancer without becoming flabby?
Gaining healthy weight while maintaining muscle mass involves focusing on protein-rich foods and incorporating resistance exercise into your routine.
Nutrition strategies:
* Work with an oncology dietitian to create a personalized nutrition plan
* Focus on high-protein foods like meat, fish, eggs, and if needed, protein supplements
* Add calorie-dense foods like nuts, trail mix, cheese, and peanut butter
* Eat smaller, frequent meals throughout the day if large meals are difficult
* Use full-fat dairy products and add extras like butter or sauces to boost calories
Exercise for muscle maintenance:
Resistance training is key to building and maintaining muscle rather than just gaining fat. A physical therapist can help you incorporate safe resistance exercises into your routine.
Many MyLungCancerTeam members have found that regular exercise, even when starting small, helps them feel better physically and emotionally. One member shared that exercise helped with lung capacity and "just feels good."
Start slowly if you're experiencing fatigue, and gradually increase intensity as you build strength. The combination of adequate protein intake and resistance exercise will help ensure weight gain goes toward muscle rather than just fat.
February 18
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