The nutrition of a patient with mesothelioma is vital, whether he or she makes the decision to be aggressively treated, or chooses control of symptoms. The intake of enough essential nutrients, like carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, fats, and protein will be key to well-being with patients. However, malnutrition often occurs as the symptoms of treatments, and/or progression of the disease can make it harder to eat well. The progression of the disease can also bring about changes in how the body metabolizes protein, carbs, and other nutrients.

A high percentage of people with mesothelioma have lost at least 10% or more of their bodyweight before making treatment decisions as noticed by doctors specializing in the disease, and statistics show that this environment leads to a decline in health.