I've have just completed chemotherapy and starting radiation therapy for early stage breast cancer. Is it O.K. for me to drink eggnog made with raw eggs during the holidays?

Patients undergoing chemotherapy &/or radiation therapy are advised to avoid raw eggs since their immune system may be suppressed during treatment. (Raw eggs are a source of Salmonella bacteria). Eggs are an excellent source of protein and can be part of a healthy diet while on treatment as long as their cooked (boiled, scrambled, poached, etc.). Try the following recipe which uses pasteurized nonfat egg substitute instead of raw eggs.

Better'n Eggs Eggnog
1 cup nonfat egg substitute
4 cups skim milk
1 (0.9-ounce) envelope sugar-free instant vanilla pudding
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
_ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Combine egg substitute & milk in mixing bowl or blender. Add remaining ingredients. Beat for 2 minutes or until well blended. Refrigerate until serving. Makes 10 (1/2 cup) servings.
Nutritional information per serving: 50 calories; 0 fat; 103 mg sodium

My uncle was recently diagnosed with familial adenomatous polypsois (FAP) or more commonly known as colon polyps. Should he change his diet to decrease his risk of colon cancer?

Recent studies are recommending a diet high in fiber (30-35 grams/day) and calcium (1200 mg/day) for FAP. High fiber food sources include whole grain breads and cereals, fruits and vegetables. The best sources of calcium include low fat milk and dairy products, Total cereal, calcium fortified orange juice, salmon (eaten with the bones) , collard greens, kale, and almonds.

Before my father started chemotherapy for his lung cancer, he loved hamburgers. Now, he can't stand the sight or smell of one! Is there an alternative I could offer him since I'm serving hamburgers at my kid's birthday party?

Relax !!!! Since your father has developed an aversion to red meat while undergoing chemotherapy, I recommend Boca Burgers as an alternative. Boca Burgers are meatless burgers which are all natural, low in fat and high in protein. Consumers can purchase Boca Burgers in the freezer section of the grocery store. Varieties include Chef Max's Favorite, Original Vegan or Hint of Fresh Garlic.

My wife has larynx cancer and undergoing radiation therapy. I know that nutrition is very important to support her treatment. Are there any web sites to analyze her diet?

The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Web site offers free nutritional information on more than 6,000 foods. To analyze your wife's diet, visit www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/foodcomp. Also, request to see the oncology dietitian where your wife is receiving treatment. She can offer nutritional recommendations to help your wife maintain her weight during the radiation therapy.