LEWISTON – “Eating Well for Optimal Health During Cancer Treatment and Beyond” will be the focus of a workshop for cancer patients, survivors and caregivers on Wednesday, Feb. 18, at the Patrick Dempsey Center for Cancer Hope and Healing at Central Maine Medical Center.

The workshop, led by oncology dietitian Jill Young, is about the health benefits that good nutrition provides individuals going through cancer treatment or who have been through treatment.

For some cancer patients, surgery, radiation and/or chemotherapy may present challenges when it comes to eating well. Yet, good nourishment helps patients progress through treatments with more energy and fewer infections. Good nutrition supports the body’s immune system and healing abilities. A healthy diet may also prevent other health problems from occurring.

Young will present information about various diets, including the Mediterranean diet, vegetarianism and the USDA food pyramid. She will also answer questions about nutritional needs during treatment and recovery from cancer.

Young, a registered dietitian and nutritionist, has an extensive background in oncology nutrition. With more than 20 years of experience, she has worked with cancer patients in the Washington, D.C., area, the Veterans Administration Hospital in Togus and at CMMC. She also has experience working with patients concerned with health issues such as diabetes, eating disorders, weight management and weight loss.

The workshop is free and will be held from 1:30 to 3 p.m. in Conference Room I on the lower level of the 12 High Street Medical Office Building, adjacent to Central Maine Medical Center.

For more information or to preregister, call 795-8250 or 1-877-DEMPCTR.