Define Fat requirement for cancer patients?
During cancer there is enhanced mobilization of free fatty acids from adipose tissues resulting in subsequent depletion of total body fat. Around 15-20% of the modified energy requirements should be provided from fat as they help in making the meals calorie dense and improve palatability.
Emphasis should be laid on the incorporation of emulsified fats and vegetable oils particularly those which are rich in medium chain triglycerides. Visible sources of animal fiat (pure ghee, lard etc.) and flesh food (red meat) should be restricted in diet. A combination of vegetable oils (olive, coconut, safflower etc.) cream, butter etc. can help in improving taste and providing variety in term of flavour in different meals.