Head and neck cancer is the term that's used to describe types of cancer that affect the various areas throughout the head, neck and throat. These cancers often involve the squamous cells around the mouth, ears, nose, and throat, as well as the salivary gland cancers that are generally less common. Like any kind of cancer, it's important to make sure that you maintain a good diet when you're undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer, so that you can promote a faster recovery and limit your chances of discomfort wherever possible. Here, we'll look at 9 foods to avoid when suffering from head and neck cancer.

1. Vinegar

Acidic foods like vinegar can be very uncomfortable on the mouth and throat, which can frequently suffer from sores and discomfort during head and neck cancer. Often, it's better to choose foods that are less acidic.

2. Citrus Fruits

Similar to the first item on our list of 9 foods to avoid when suffering from head and neck cancer, citrus fruits are often highly acidic, which can lead to a burning or stinging sensation in accompaniment with the symptoms of head and neck cancer. Depending on the pain in your throat and mouth, it's advisable to avoid citrus fruits.

3. Bread

Bread and toast can become more difficult to swallow for someone who is suffering from head and neck cancer that effects the throat. The muscles in the throat can become weak which means that food has to be excessively chewed or liquidized before swallowing.

4. Hard Foods

Any hard foods that require extensive chewing are usually a bad choice for someone with head and neck cancer, which is why they are on our list of 9 foods to avoid when suffering from head and neck cancer. Typically, you won't be able to chew as well with this condition as before, which increases the risk of discomfort and even choking.

5. Hot Foods or Fluids

Very hot fluids or foods can be very painful or difficult to swallow for someone with head or neck cancer. It's important to wait until foods have cooled down significantly before attempting to eat them. Meanwhile, cold fluids and foods can sometimes be as uncomfortable as hot foods and fluids.

6. Salty Foods

In head and neck cancer patients, it is common to suffer from a dry mouth or throat. During this time, exposure to salty foods can dry your mouth out even more and make you feel even more uncomfortable.

7. Large Foods

Any food that is too large to be easily chewed and swallowed may be a bad option for someone with head or neck cancer. It's better to take small mouthfuls of food, and even blend or puree food in some cases.

8. Foods that Are Difficult to Digest

It can be difficult to eat enough food when you're struggling from head or neck cancer, so it's important to make sure that every mouthful counts. Try to avoid hard-to-digest or low-nutrient foods whenever possible.

9. Low-calorie Foods

Low-calorie foods are on our list of 9 foods to avoid when suffering from head and neck cancer, because your aim should be to get enough calories as much as you can. Milky foods are good for getting the nutrition you need.