Last Updated on December 2, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir

Explaining the oral hygiene rule and listing key Things not to do while on chemotherapy (e.g., raw food). Chemotherapy can be challenging, so understanding what to avoid is essential. Did you know almost 1.9 million people in the U.S. get cancer each year? Many of them have to go through chemotherapy.

When you’re on chemotherapy, your body is more open to infections and side effects. Some things and foods can make these problems worse. We’ll look at the main things to avoid during treatment. This will help make your chemotherapy safer and more effective.

Key Takeaways

• Understanding the importance of precautions during chemotherapy
• Identifying foods to avoid while on chemo
• Recognizing activities that may increase risks during treatment
• Tips for managing common side effects
• Precautions to minimize the risk of infections

Understanding Chemotherapy and Its Effects on the Body

It’s important for patients to know how chemotherapy works. This treatment targets cells that grow fast, like cancer cells and some healthy ones.

How Chemotherapy Works in the Body

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill or slow down cancer cells. It can be taken by mouth or through an IV. The drugs travel through the blood, reaching cancer cells in different parts of the body.

The process involves several key aspects:

• Targeting rapidly dividing cells: Chemotherapy is most effective against cells that are rapidly dividing, such as cancer cells.
• Impact on healthy cells: While chemotherapy targets cancer cells, it can also affect healthy cells that divide quickly, such as hair follicle cells and cells lining the mouth and intestines.
• Cellular senescence: Research has shown that cellular senescence plays a significant role in tumorigenesis and tumor progression, making it a critical area of study in understanding chemotherapy’s effects.

Why Restrictions Are Necessary During Treatment

Restrictions during chemotherapy are needed to avoid complications and ensure the treatment works well. Some activities, foods, and medicines can harm the treatment’s effects.

Some key reasons for these restrictions include:

1. Reducing infection risk: Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections.
2. Avoiding drug interactions: Certain foods, medications, and supplements can interact with chemotherapy drugs, reducing their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
3. Managing side effects: By avoiding certain activities and foods, patients can help manage common side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and mouth sores.

Common Misconceptions About Chemotherapy

There are many misconceptions about chemotherapy that can cause fear or confusion. Knowing the truth can help patients feel more informed and ready for treatment.

Some common misconceptions include:

• All chemotherapy is the same: In reality, there are many different types of chemotherapy, and the specific treatment regimen depends on the type of cancer, its stage, and the patient’s overall health.
• Chemotherapy always causes severe side effects: While chemotherapy can cause side effects, their severity varies widely among patients, and many side effects can be managed with supportive care.
• Patients cannot continue their normal activities during chemotherapy: Many patients can continue to work and engage in their usual activities during treatment, though they may need to adjust to manage fatigue and other side effects.

Dietary Restrictions: Foods to Avoid While on Chemotherapy

When you’re on chemotherapy, what you eat is very important. Some foods can make infections worse or mess with your treatment. It’s key to know which foods to stay away from.

Raw and Undercooked Foods: Infection Risks

Chemotherapy weakens your immune system, making you more likely to get sick. Eating raw or undercooked foods can increase this risk. You should avoid:

• Raw or undercooked meat, poultry, and seafood
• Unpasteurized dairy products and juices
• Raw eggs and foods containing raw eggs

Proper food handling and cooking techniques are vital to prevent foodborne illnesses.

Specific Fruits and Vegetables to Avoid

Even though fruits and veggies are good for you, some can be risky during chemotherapy. For example:

• Raw sprouts, such as alfalfa and bean sprouts, can harbor harmful bacteria
• Certain fruits like berries may be contaminated with pathogens; ensure they are washed thoroughly

It’s also a good idea to peel fruits and vegetables when possible to further reduce the risk of infection.

Grapefruit and Drug Interactions

Grapefruit and its juice can mess with some chemotherapy drugs. This can make the drugs less effective and increase side effects. It’s recommended to avoid grapefruit entirely during treatment unless your doctor says it’s okay.

By following these dietary tips, you can help manage your health while on chemotherapy. Always talk to your healthcare team for advice on what to eat.

Beverage Restrictions During Chemotherapy

Knowing what not to drink during chemotherapy is key. It can make your treatment work better and ease side effects. What you drink is as important as what you eat during this time.

Can You Drink Alcohol While on Chemo?

Many patients wonder whether they can drink alcohol during chemotherapy; in most cases, it’s best to avoid it. Alcohol can make side effects like nausea and tiredness worse. It can also make your treatment less effective.

Key Risks of Alcohol Consumption During Chemotherapy:

• Increased risk of dehydration
• Enhanced toxicity of chemotherapy drugs
• Worsening of side effects like nausea and fatigue

How Long After Chemotherapy Can You Drink Alcohol

When you can start drinking alcohol again depends on your treatment and health. Your doctor will tell you when it’s okay. This is usually after treatment and when your body has healed.

Why Cold Drinks May Be Restricted

Cold drinks might be off-limits during some chemo phases. This is true if you’re dealing with mouth or throat issues. Cold drinks can make mouth pain worse.

Best Juices and Hydration Options for Chemo Patients

Drinking enough water is very important during chemo. Here are some good drinks:

Beverage	Benefits
Water	Essential for hydration, helps flush out toxins
Ginger Ale	Can help alleviate nausea
Cranberry Juice	May help prevent urinary tract infections
Herbal Teas (like peppermint or chamomile)	Can soothe the stomach and promote relaxation

Talking to your doctor about drinks is important. They can give advice based on your treatment and health.

Medication and Supplement Restrictions

When you’re going through chemotherapy, knowing what medications and supplements to avoid is key. Chemotherapy drugs are strong and can be affected by other substances. This can lead to bad reactions or make your treatment less effective.

Over-the-Counter Medications to Avoid

Some over-the-counter (OTC) medications can mess with your chemotherapy drugs. For instance, taking Mucinex or other cold meds without checking with your doctor can cause problems. Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking any OTC meds.

OTC Medication	Potential Interaction
Mucinex (Guaifenesin)	May increase the risk of bleeding when taken with certain chemotherapy drugs
Aspirin	Can increase the risk of bleeding and may interact with chemotherapy drugs
Ibuprofen	May increase the risk of kidney damage when taken with certain chemotherapy agents

Mucinex and Other Cold Medications: Side Effects

Mucinex is used to help with chest congestion but can cause side effects during chemotherapy. These can include dizziness, headaches, and nausea. It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about the risks and benefits.

Herbal Supplements and Natural Remedies

Herbal supplements and natural remedies can also interact with chemotherapy drugs. For example, St. John’s Wort can change how your body processes some chemotherapy meds. Always check with your oncologist before taking any herbal supplements.

Dexamethasone and Chemotherapy Interactions

Dexamethasone is a corticosteroid sometimes used with chemotherapy to manage side effects. But, it can interact with some chemotherapy drugs. Your healthcare provider needs to carefully manage its dosage.

To stay safe during chemotherapy, tell your healthcare team about all the medications and supplements you’re taking. This includes vitamins, minerals, and herbal remedies. Knowing about possible interactions helps avoid risks and ensures your treatment works best.

Physical Activities and Exercise Limitations

Keeping up with physical activity is key for chemotherapy patients. Yet, some exercises might be too risky during treatment. We’ll look at safe activities, how to adjust your routine, and when to take a break.

High-Impact Activities to Avoid

It’s best to steer clear of high-impact activities that could cause harm. These include:

• Contact sports like football or basketball
• High-impact aerobics or running
• Heavy weightlifting
• Activities with a high risk of falls, such as skiing or horseback riding

These activities can put too much strain on your body. They might also hinder your recovery or raise the chance of injury.

Exercise Modifications During Treatment

Changing your workout routine is often needed during chemotherapy. This might mean:

1. Lowering the intensity of your workouts
2. Switching to gentler activities like yoga, walking, or swimming
3. Adding more rest days
4. Adjusting based on how you feel

These changes help keep you active without pushing too hard.

When to Rest vs. When to Stay Active

Finding the right balance between rest and activity is important. Rest is vital for healing, but staying active can help manage side effects and boost your mood.

Safe Physical Activities During Chemotherapy

Some activities are safe during chemotherapy, including:

Activity	Benefits	Precautions
Walking	Improves cardiovascular health, manageable intensity	Avoid uneven terrain, stay hydrated
Yoga	Enhances flexibility, reduces stress	Avoid poses that strain or cause discomfort
Swimming	Low-impact, improves muscle strength	Avoid public pools if immune system is compromised

Knowing which physical activities are safe and which to avoid helps chemotherapy patients make better choices. This can improve their treatment experience.

Sun Exposure and Tanning Restrictions

When you’re getting chemotherapy, protecting your skin from the sun is key. Chemotherapy makes your skin more sensitive to the sun. This can lead to serious sunburn or skin reactions.

Increased Skin Sensitivity During Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy changes how your skin reacts to UV rays. This makes your skin more prone to damage. Even a little sun can cause harm, like sunburn or blistering.

To stay safe, know how chemotherapy affects your skin. Be extra careful during the hottest part of the day (10 am to 4 pm).

Why Tanning Beds Should Be Avoided

Tanning beds give off UV radiation, just like the sun. This is bad news for people getting chemotherapy. They can cause sunburn, skin aging, and even skin cancer.

With your skin already sensitive from chemo, tanning beds are a big risk. It’s best to steer clear of them until your treatment ends and your skin heals.

Sun Protection Guidelines for Chemo Patients

Keeping your skin safe from the sun is vital during chemo. Here’s how to do it:

• Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30. Apply it 15-30 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours or after swimming or sweating.
• Wear protective clothing, like a wide-brimmed hat and long-sleeved shirts, to cover your skin from the sun.
• Seek shade when you can, mostly during the hottest hours.
• Avoid going outside during the peak sun hours (10 am to 4 pm).

By following these tips, you can lower the risks of sun damage during chemo. If you have concerns or notice any unusual skin issues, talk to your doctor for advice.

Personal Care and Hygiene Precautions

Keeping up with personal care and hygiene is key when you’re going through chemotherapy. This treatment can mess with your hair, skin, and nails. So, it’s important to pay extra attention to these areas to avoid problems.

Hair Care During Chemotherapy

Hair loss is a common side effect of chemotherapy. So, using gentle hair products is a good idea. Try to avoid using too much heat on your hair and be careful when you brush or comb it.

Some people choose to cut their hair short before starting treatment. This can make it easier to deal with hair loss. Others might decide to shave their head completely.

Chemo Haircut Options and Considerations

Getting the right haircut before chemotherapy can really help. Here are some options:

• Short styles that make hair loss less noticeable
• Buzz cuts for a clean start
• Using wigs, hats, or scarves as alternatives

Skin Care Restrictions and Recommendations

Chemotherapy can make your skin more sensitive. We recommend using mild soap and avoiding harsh exfoliants. Also, make sure to moisturize your skin regularly to keep it hydrated.

Protecting your skin from the sun is also important. Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF.

Nail Care Considerations During Treatment

Don’t forget about your nails when you’re going through chemotherapy. Keeping your nails short can help prevent breakage and infection.

Nail Care Tip	Benefit
Keep nails short	Reduces risk of breakage and infection
Avoid harsh chemicals	Prevents nail damage and irritation
Moisturize cuticles	Prevents dryness and cracking

Things Not to Do While on Chemotherapy: Social Activities

It’s key to know the risks of social activities during chemotherapy. Chemotherapy weakens the immune system, making patients more likely to get sick. So, it’s important to be careful with social interactions during this time.

Crowded Places and Infection Risk

Staying away from crowded places is a big concern during chemotherapy. Places like buses, malls, and theaters can spread germs easily. Staying away from these areas can help lower the chance of getting sick.

If you must go to crowded places, it’s important to take steps to protect yourself. Wear a mask, keep a safe distance from others, and wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer.

Travel Restrictions During Treatment

Traveling during chemotherapy needs careful planning. Always talk to your doctor before traveling. Try to avoid traveling to places with high infection rates or where medical care is not good.

If you must travel, make sure you can get medical help where you’re going. Look up local hospitals and have a plan for emergencies.

Social Gatherings and Necessary Precautions

Social events can be tricky during chemotherapy. It’s important to stay connected but safely. Try to meet fewer people and avoid those who are sick to lower risks.

Balancing Social Life with Treatment Safety

It’s possible to stay social while being safe during chemotherapy. You can host events at home or use video calls for safer interactions.

Talking to friends and family about your needs is also key. They can support you by understanding your limits during this time.

Sexual Activity and Intimacy During Chemotherapy

People getting chemotherapy often worry about intimacy and sex. Chemotherapy can lower libido and make sex hard, making it a touchy subject. It’s important to think about it carefully.

Precautions for Sexual Activity During Treatment

It’s key to be careful during chemotherapy to avoid infections. Using protection during sex helps prevent infections. Also, know your body’s limits and avoid anything that hurts or feels wrong.

Talking to your partner is very important. Sharing your feelings and limits can make your relationship stronger and less stressful.

Can You Have Intercourse During Chemotherapy?

Most of the time, sex during chemotherapy is okay, but follow some rules. Avoid sex when blood counts are low to prevent infections or bleeding.

Talking to a healthcare provider about your concerns is also a good idea. They can give advice tailored to your situation.

Fertility Preservation Options Before Treatment

Chemotherapy can harm fertility, so thinking about preserving fertility before treatment is smart. Options include sperm banking, egg freezing, or embryo preservation.

Communication with Partners About Restrictions

Talking about how chemotherapy affects sex can be tough but is essential. Be open about your feelings, worries, and any physical issues you face.

Precaution	Description	Importance Level
Using Protection	Using condoms or other barrier methods to prevent infection transmission.	High
Avoiding Sexual Activity During Low Blood Counts	Reducing the risk of infection or bleeding by avoiding sexual activity when blood counts are low.	High
Open Communication	Discussing feelings, concerns, and limitations with partners.	High

Understanding the precautions and options can help patients deal with chemotherapy’s challenges. This way, they can keep intimacy alive and address fertility worries.

Household and Family Precautions

Keeping a safe home is key for those getting chemotherapy. It affects how well they do in treatment. Chemotherapy drugs can be in bodily fluids, so special care is needed to keep everyone safe.

Chemotherapy Precautions for Family Members at Home

Family members need to know the risks when living with someone getting chemotherapy. These drugs can get out through urine, feces, and vomit. This means others can be exposed.

To stay safe, family members should:

• Wear gloves when handling bodily fluids or laundry soiled with bodily fluids.
• Avoid direct contact with the patient’s bodily fluids.
• Practice good hygiene, including frequent handwashing.

Handling Laundry and Bodily Fluids Safely

It’s important to handle laundry and bodily fluids carefully to avoid exposure to chemotherapy drugs. Here are some tips:

Precaution	Description
Wear protective gloves	Use gloves when handling laundry or bodily fluids that may contain chemotherapy drugs.
Wash laundry separately	Wash the patient’s laundry separately from other family members’ laundry.
Use hot water	Wash clothing and bedding in hot water to help kill any chemotherapy residue.

The American Cancer Society says, “Handling the bodily fluids of someone who has been treated with chemotherapy requires special precautions to avoid exposure to the drug.”

Pet Care Considerations During Treatment

Pets can offer comfort and support during chemotherapy. But, there are precautions to take:

• Have someone else clean the litter box or pet cages to avoid exposure to potentially contaminated waste.
• Avoid contact with pet bodily fluids.
• Keep pets clean, specially after they’ve been outside.

Creating a Safe Home Environment

To make a safe home, consider these tips:

“A safe home is not just about avoiding hazards; it’s about creating a nurturing space that supports healing and well-being.” – Unknown

By following these precautions, patients and their families can keep a safe and caring home environment.

Protecting Your Liver and Vital Organs During Treatment

When you’re going through chemotherapy, it’s key to keep your liver and vital organs safe. Chemotherapy can harm these areas, so it’s important to take steps to protect them.

How to Protect Your Liver During Chemotherapy

To keep your liver safe, make some dietary changes and avoid harmful substances. Staying hydrated is very important for your liver’s health. Also, avoid alcohol and certain medications that can hurt your liver.

• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Avoid foods high in saturated fats and sugars.
• Limit your intake of processed foods.

Specific Precautions for Capecitabine and Similar Drugs

Capecitabine and similar drugs need extra care. They can harm your liver, so it’s important to follow your doctor’s advice. You’ll need to have your liver checked regularly with blood tests.

Some important precautions include:

1. Tell your doctor about any other medications or supplements you’re taking.
2. Report any side effects, like jaundice or dark urine, right away.
3. Go to all your scheduled appointments for liver function tests.

Monitoring Organ Function During Treatment

It’s vital to keep an eye on your organ function during chemotherapy. This means:

• Getting liver function tests to check for damage.
• Having blood tests to watch your overall health.
• Telling your healthcare provider about any symptoms or side effects quickly.

Dietary Support for Organ Health

Eating a balanced diet is key for organ health during chemotherapy. Foods full of antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, can help protect your organs. Also, drinking plenty of water is very important.

Environmental Exposures to Avoid

Chemotherapy isn’t just about medicine. It’s also about being careful about your surroundings. Some things in your environment can be very harmful, making your treatment harder.

Cleaning Products and Harmful Chemicals

Many cleaning products have harsh chemicals. These can be dangerous if you breathe them in or touch your skin. When you’re getting chemotherapy, your body can’t fight off infections as well.

• Choose cleaning products that are fragrance-free and hypoallergenic.
• Wear gloves when cleaning to avoid skin contact.
• Make sure the area is well-ventilated to avoid inhaling fumes.

Saunas, Hot Tubs, and Swimming Pools: Safety Concerns

Saunas, hot tubs, and swimming pools can be risky because of contaminated water. The heat can also make you dehydrated and weak.

Precautions to Take:

• Stay away from saunas and hot tubs, if you have low blood counts.
• Check the chlorine levels in swimming pools before swimming.
• Shower right after using these places to reduce exposure to irritants.

Gardening and Outdoor Activity Precautions

Gardening and being outside can be good, but they also have risks. You might get dirt, pollen, or other things that can bother you.

Air Quality Considerations

Poor air quality can make breathing problems worse. It can also make your treatment harder. Always check the air quality before going outside.

• Wear protective clothing, like gloves and masks, when gardening.
• Don’t garden or be outside when pollen is high or air quality is bad.
• Pick plants that are less likely to cause allergies.

When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider

Knowing when to call your healthcare provider is key during chemotherapy. Chemotherapy can lead to many side effects, some serious. Knowing these can help you handle your treatment better.

Warning Signs That Require Immediate Attention

Some symptoms and side effects are serious and need quick medical help. These include:

• Fever above 100.4°F (38°C)
• Severe pain not relieved by medication
• Signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus
• Bleeding or bruising that doesn’t stop
• Severe nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea or constipation that persists
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

If you see any of these signs, call your healthcare provider right away.

Managing Side Effects at Home vs. Seeking Help

Some side effects can be handled at home, but others need medical help. For example, mild nausea can be managed with medication and diet changes. But, if you can’t keep fluids down, you should see your healthcare provider.

It’s important to know the difference between mild and severe side effects. Mild ones like fatigue or hair loss can be managed on your own. But, severe ones need immediate care.

Questions to Ask Your Oncologist About Restrictions

Your oncologist can help you understand what to avoid during chemotherapy. Some questions to ask include:

• What are the most common side effects of my specific chemotherapy regimen?
• How can I manage these side effects at home?
• Are there any specific foods or activities I should avoid?
• What are the warning signs that I should watch out for?
• How can I contact your office if I have questions or concerns between appointments?

Finding Cancer Care Resources Near You

Having access to good cancer care resources is important if you’re undergoing chemotherapy. This includes support groups, nutrition advice, and emergency facilities. Ask your oncologist for suggestions or search online for local options.

Cancer centers often provide many services, like social work and rehab programs. Don’t be afraid to reach out to these resources for support during your treatment.

Conclusion: Balancing Restrictions with Quality of Life

When you’re going through chemotherapy, finding a balance is key. You need to follow the rules but also enjoy life. Knowing the restrictions helps you move through treatment with confidence.

We’ve talked about many parts of chemotherapy. This includes what foods to eat, how much to move, and how to avoid getting sick. Following these tips helps avoid problems and improves treatment results.

It’s important to plan and get support to balance life with treatment. Making smart choices and listening to your doctor helps. This way, you can keep doing things that make you happy.

We aim to support you fully during chemotherapy. We want you to live well while following your treatment plan. By following our lifestyle tips, you can handle your treatment better and feel more confident.

FAQ

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Evidence-Based Medical Insight. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/immunocompromised-person/index.html

World Health Organization. Evidence-Based Medical Insight. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/q-a-detail/vaccines-and-immunization-during-chemotherapy