Children going through cancer treatment often face lots of challenges—including changes in taste and appetite. For years, many children on treatment had to follow a neutropenic diet, which cut out lots of foods in an effort to reduce the risk of infection. What was the guidance before? It meant children couldn’t eat things like; But new international guidance says that level of restriction isn’t needed—and it doesn’t help. What’s changed? Instead, the focus is now on safe and joyful eating. The idea is simple: keep food safe, but let children eat a wider variety of things they enjoy. This is especially important when cancer treatments like chemo and radiotherapy can already make eating hard. Professor Bob Phillips, Director of the Candlelighters Supportive Care Research Centre (CSCRC) worked with global experts on these new guidelines, led by the Paediatric Oncology Group of Ontario (POGO). Together, they looked at the evidence around infection risks and diet in children with cancer, including those who’ve had stem cell transplants. Their conclusion? The old approach—avoiding lots of everyday foods just in case—didn’t actually make a difference in keeping children safer from infections. Why is it important? Being able to eat a more varied diet during cancer treatment isn’t just about nutrition. We know it’s important for children. When they are allowed to eat a broader range of familiar foods, it helps them feel more normal. And it means they’re more likely to find foods they actually want to eat, which is important when treatment affects their appetite. Ultimately, it’s about more than just avoiding infection. It’s about giving children the chance to enjoy food, feel good about eating, and stay strong throughout treatment. How does Candlelighters help? Our Dinner Supervisor, Elaine, works with families and clinicians to create comforting, tasty meals, packed with the nutrition children need to face the day. Because she’s there throughout the day—not just at set hospital mealtimes—children can access food when they’re actually ready to eat. Whether that’s a late breakfast after a tough night or a snack in the afternoon, it’s about meeting them where they are, with food they’ll enjoy.
