Optimal metabolic and nutritional health play an important role in cancer treatment and recovery. It is estimated that 50% of patients are malnourished at time of diagnosis. Our Oncology Dietitian Nutritionists help improve the nutritional status of oncology patients which may reduce treatment side effects, improve quality of life and treatment outcomes.
Our Oncology Dietitian Nutritionists specialize in nutrition counseling for cancer patients and offer personalized care through:
- evidence-based recommendations that are drawn from scientific research and clinical experience
- real-time collaboration with your multidisciplinary team
- monitoring and analysis of clinical data to tailor therapeutic interventions
- correction of nutritional deficiencies with a whole foods and supplements approach, keeping your food preferences in mind
- adapting specific recommendations to your clinical situation to help address side effects, manage pain, prevent unwanted weight loss/gain and improve quality of life
- reducing treatment interruptions, potential treatment toxicities or unplanned hospitalizations
- guidance to help decrease the risk of cancer recurrence and other chronic diseases.
Oncology Nutrition Videos
Our Oncology Dietitian Nutritionists create educational videos for patients and caregivers. These videos address frequently asked questions such as nutrition support for common side effects, how to stay hydrated during cancer treatment and food safety during treatment. These videos can be watched from the comfort of your home at any time. Click here to see our full library of videos.
Oncology Nutrition Counseling
Individuals currently in treatment or within one year of their last treatment may receive nutrition counseling free-of-charge with the Cancer Center’s Oncology Dietitian Nutritionists, Sarah Washburn, MS, RDN, CSO, Rebecca Colvin MPH, RDN, CSO or Pamela Wells, MA, RDN. Email OncNutrition@ridleytrecc.org or call (805) 879-5652 to schedule an appointment. Oncology nutrition appointments are available in person and via Telehealth.
Oncology Nutrition Classes
Join our Oncology Dietitian Nutritionists to discuss the most recent research related to cancer, foods, and your lifestyle.
Discovering Intuitive Eating for Cancer Survivors - NEW CLASS!
Date: Wednesday, February 26, 2025
Time: 12:00 - 1:30PM
Location: Zoom
Cultivate a healthy relationship with food and body.
Empower yourself with the tools and knowledge to cultivate a positive relationship with food and body through intuitive eating principles. This program offers a safe and supportive space to explore the healing power of intuitive eating. Led by Ridley-Tree Cancer Center Oncology Dietitian Nutritionist Rebecca Colvin, this class will cover:
- The Foundations of Intuitive Eating
- Reconnect With Hunger and Fullness Cues
- Strategies for Emotional Eating
- Gentle Movement and Body Appreciation
- Rekindling Your Love for Food
- Building a Supportive Community
Open to cancer survivors who are not in active chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Space is limited. Email OncNutrition@ridleytreecc.org or call (805) 879-5652 to register.
Community Lectures
Our Oncology Dietitian Nutritionists participate in the Ridley-Tree Cancer Center Community Lectures program, which aims to inform and educate the public through presentations on interdisciplinary topics related to cancer care and cancer prevention. Past lectures focused on nutrition have included the following topics:
This program is made possible thanks to the generosity of the Cancer Foundation of Santa Barbara, Ridley-Tree Cancer Center’s fundraising partner.
