The second-year students had the opportunity to visit the Dietary Department at Malabar Cancer Centre (MCC), where they gained valuable insights into the role of dietetics in cancer care. During the visit, the students were introduced to the critical role nutrition plays in the treatment and recovery of cancer patients. They learned how dietitians work alongside oncologists to create customized meal plans that support patients through the challenges posed by treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery.

The students explored how therapeutic diets are specifically designed to meet the nutritional needs of cancer patients, ensuring they receive adequate calories, proteins, and micronutrients. They observed the importance of modifying food textures and consistencies for patients with difficulties swallowing or those experiencing nausea, making meals both nutritious and palatable. The visit also highlighted the use of enteral and parenteral nutrition for patients unable to eat orally, emphasizing the vital role dietitians play in managing these feeding techniques.

In addition to the theoretical insights, the students were given a tour of the hospital kitchen, where meals are prepared with precision and care to ensure that every dish meets the specific dietary requirements of cancer patients. They witnessed the meticulous planning that goes into creating high-protein, nutrient-dense meals, and how meal preparation aligns with patients' medical needs.

The visit concluded with a deeper understanding of the holistic care approach that dietitians provide to cancer patients, which includes not just meal planning but also nutritional counseling for both patients and their families. This visit was an eye-opening experience for the students, solidifying the importance of dietetics in the cancer care process and providing them with practical knowledge they can apply in their future careers.