I’m underweight and having trouble keeping weight on. What are some nutritious plant-based snacks that will prevent me from losing weight?

Weight Control - Questions and Answers ABOUT FOODS AND CANCER PREVENTION AND SURVIVAL

QUESTION: I’m underweight and having trouble keeping weight on. What are some nutritious plant-based snacks that will prevent me from losing weight?

ANSWER: Dried beans and peas, nuts, and seeds are examples of foods can
help. They supply both calories and protein, among other nutrients. Shakes
can be made with rice milk, almond milk, soymilk, tofu, and nondairy
frozen desserts and can be flavored with frozen or fresh fruit and vanilla or
other extracts to make tasty, calorie-rich treats. Also, dried fruit is rich in
calories and nutrients but low in fat, and many varieties of trail mix are easily
available and great for high-energy snacking.

QUESTION: For an overweight breast cancer survivor, is it important to just focus on eating healthfully, or is weight loss important also?

ANSWER: You will want to focus on both. Evidence suggests you can improve
your chances of surviving breast cancer and reduce recurrence by achieving
a healthy weight. The best way to lose weight is to choose health-promoting,
low-fat meals built around legumes, grains, vegetables, and fruit, and incorporate
more physical activity into your lifestyle. Of course, it’s important
to check with your doctor first to get the green light on the type and level
of exercise you’d like to do. Once you get the go-ahead, make a commitment
to regular exercise. You’ll feel better for it!