The Relationship with Food in Women with Breast Cancer: A Qualitative Pilot Study
Keywords:
Breast neoplasms, Chemotherapy, Eating behavior, Mindfulness, Mindful eatingAbstract
Objective: The article evaluated perceptions about eating behavior in women with breast cancer undergoing chemotherapy during online meetings with Mindfulness and Conscious Eating. This is an experimental research with qualitative analysis of data obtained from a pilot study. Method: The analysis of the participants' speeches, recorded and transcribed, used the Bardin method and Similarity Analysis via IRAMUTEQ, addressing three thematic axes. Results: Participants reported eating discomfort resulting from the effects of chemotherapy, highlighting, at the same time, palatable food choices for comfort, pleasure and self-care. Reports emerged related to greater awareness and intention in food choices, as well as disconnection with the senses and automatic eating. Conclusion: A new meaning was observed in the relationship with food, despite challenges such as manifestations of dysgeusia, loss of appetite and decreased pleasure when eating.
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