A Nutrient-Packed Smoothie For Cancer Treatment and Recovery

(With 6 simple ingredients and zero faff)

Are you struggling to eat well during chemotherapy? Or maybe you're weeks (or even months) out from treatment and still feeling wiped out? Then this smoothie might give you that little boost you've been looking for.

When you're going through cancer treatment, nutrition can feel like one more thing on a very long list. But it really can make a difference — and the more nutrient-dense foods you can get in, the better your body can cope with treatment and recovery.

This high-protein smoothie is one of my go-to recipes for clients dealing with fatigue, poor appetite, or just not feeling up to cooking. It's simple, it tastes good, and it's packed with ingredients that support your body when it's under pressure.

I’ve broken down why each ingredient matters below — or if you’re short on time (or energy), scroll down to the recipe and come back to the rest later.

Why Nutrition Matters During Cancer Treatment

Cancer treatment can be physically and emotionally exhausting. Fatigue, nausea, changes in taste, and appetite loss are all common side effects — and they can make eating well feel almost impossible. That’s where liquid meals (like smoothies or soups) come in handy.

They’re easy to prepare, easier to get down, and — when done right — can pack in plenty of protein, fibre, healthy fats, and immune-building nutrients. Working with a dietitian trained in oncology nutrition can help you figure out what works best for your body, especially if you're dealing with side effects or have specific dietary needs.

What’s Inside the Smoothie (and Why It Helps)

Protein Powder

Protein is crucial during cancer treatment. It helps repair cells, supports your immune system, and can reduce muscle loss (especially important if you’re feeling a bit couch-bound).

This smoothie contains around 30g of protein thanks to a double scoop of protein powder — choose a brand you like the taste of (and that fits your dietary needs). You don’t need anything fancy or expensive. If you're unsure, reach out — this is something I help people on a daily basis!

Antioxidant-Rich Berries

Frozen mixed berries give you a hit of colour, flavour and a good dose of antioxidants — compounds that help reduce oxidative stress and may play a role in lowering the risk of cancer recurrence.

They also taste delicious and are usually well-tolerated, even when your appetite is a bit hit-and-miss.

Chia Seeds for Soluble Fibre

Chia seeds are a gut-friendly ingredient that’s gentle but effective. They’re rich in soluble fibre, which helps regulate bowel function and can relieve constipation (a common chemo side effect).

Plus, they’re a source of omega-3 fats and provide a nice little texture boost in your smoothie.

Peanut Butter for Healthy Fats

A heaped tablespoon of peanut butter adds creaminess, flavour and those all-important healthy fats. These fats help your body absorb fat-soluble vitamins like A, D and E — nutrients that play a role in immunity, bone health, and healing.

Bonus: peanut butter is rich in protein too.

Calcium-Fortified Milk

Whether you go for soy milk or dairy, both are great options here. They offer protein, calcium and vitamin D — nutrients especially important if you’re at risk of bone loss from the various treatment modalities you’ve needed.

Just make sure your plant-based milk is calcium-fortified (check the nutrition label for at least 300mg calcium per serve).

This smoothie is a simple, nourishing option to help you boost your protein and energy — whether you're in the middle of active treatment or focusing on recovery. It's an easy way to look after your body when things feel a bit much. As always, check in with your oncology dietitian if you're not sure what's right for you.

So, blend it up, take a moment in the sunshine, and enjoy something that feels good for your body 🍓🫐🥜

Nutrient-Packed Smoothie for Cancer Treatment and Recovery

6 Ingredients | 5 Mins to Make

1/2 banana

1/2 cup frozen mixed berries

1 heaped tablespoon peanut butter

1 teaspoon chia seeds

2 scoops protein powder (~30g)

200ml dairy or soy milk

Add all ingredients to a blender, blitz until smooth and sip slowly. Too easy.

You can refrigerate leftovers and sip throughout the day if you’re not feeling up to finishing it in one go.

Want More Recipes Like This?

This smoothie is just one of many practical, dietitian-developed recipes in my e-book, Soothing Smoothies for Chemo. If you're looking for more ways to fight fatigue, boost protein, and manage side effects like nausea or appetite loss, you’ll find plenty of gentle, nourishing ideas inside.

Check out the e-book below – it’s my most-downloaded resource for a reason.

Work 1:1 with a Dietitian

If you’re ready for more personalised help, I offer one-on-one consults to support you through treatment, recovery, or the in-between bits where things can feel a little unclear.

You can explore my Breast Cancer Programs or book a Discovery Call if you’d like a bit more direction on where to start.