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I’ve been diagnosed with CLL in April. So far this cancer is behaving it self but what can it do to the digestive part of my body.

A MyLeukemiaTeam Member asked a question 💭
Norwalk, IA

I have Gerd and , diverticulosis. How does that affect my CLL? How about chocolate protein shakes! God bless each and every CLL member🥰

October 5
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Reactions
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

I eat healthy and exercise. My medication makes my blood tests 100% normal helps. I have Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) so eating healthy is a big help. Both CCL & T2 D are no problem because of my focus on eating healthy. My wife knows her nutrition and each meal is very healthy.

October 7
A MyLeukemiaTeam Member

As we are all different Yvonne, it’s hard to say exactly how CLL affects the gut. I have Crohns so I understand your frustration & concern. Thankfully I do not take meds for my Crohns. All controlled with diet & lifestyle. Do you take meds for your stomach issues? I avoid protein shakes as they are loaded with so many processed & unhealthy ingredients & also tons of sugar which is not good for our guts at all. My protein comes from things like eggs, chicken, peanut butter, legumes,etc. Maybe look into a cookbook that focuses on high protein food & diets to follow for herd & diverticulitis?

October 6
MyLeukemiaTeam

What a warm message — right back at you and everyone in the community! 🥰 It's great to hear your CLL is behaving itself for now. Let's break down your questions.

What CLL can do to your digestive system:

CLL can affect digestion in a few ways as it progresses:

- An enlarged spleen (called splenomegaly) can develop, causing you Show Full Answer

What a warm message — right back at you and everyone in the community! 🥰 It's great to hear your CLL is behaving itself for now. Let's break down your questions.

What CLL can do to your digestive system:

CLL can affect digestion in a few ways as it progresses:

- An enlarged spleen (called splenomegaly) can develop, causing you to feel full quickly after eating small amounts and pain in the upper-left abdomen
- Loss of appetite is also a common symptom as the disease progresses
- Treatments for CLL can sometimes cause nausea, bloating, and digestive discomfort Managing diet with GERD alongside CLL:

Since you have GERD, choosing lower-fat dairy options like skim milk or nonfat yogurt (rather than butter or ice cream) can help reduce heartburn flare-ups during treatment. Avoiding caffeine is also recommended if you experience acid reflux. About chocolate protein shakes:

Good news — protein shakes can actually be a smart option! Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and immune function with CLL. A few tips to keep your shake CLL-friendly:

- Choose a low-sugar or unsweetened protein powder, since added sugar can cause energy crashes and worsen fatigue
- Use a low-fat milk or fortified nondairy alternative like almond or soy milk as your base
- Add fruit for natural sweetness and an iron/vitamin C boost
- Avoid raw eggs as an add-in, since CLL can make you more vulnerable to foodborne illness

Always check with your care team about specific products, especially if you're on treatment. 😊

October 5

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