Handling Eating Problems
I don't feel like eating
- Eat more when you feel most hungry
- Eat several small meals each day rather than three large ones
- Keep a supply of yogurt, ice cream, cheese and other high-calorie, high-protein snacks that appeal to you within easy reach
- Eat in relaxing and enjoyable surroundings
- Make your food look as attractive as possible—a little parsley, lemon wedge or tomato can brighten your plate and may tempt your appetite
When I try to eat, I feel sick
- Sip fluids frequently between meals and try to drink fluids that contain calories each day
- Chilled or frozen fluids are often easier to keep down
- Avoid greasy, fatty, or fried foods
- Let your healthcare team know if you can’t keep food down; there are a number of antinausea treatments available
My mouth/throat is sore
- If you can’t eat much, try to eat moist to pureed foods rich in calories and protein (fish, meat, nuts, yogurt, puddings, creamy soups, cheese, milk)
- Try introducing solid foods gradually, after starting with high-calorie fluids
- Avoid salty/spicy foods that may irritate your mouth
- Try sucking on ice or popsicles prior to eating
- Your healthcare team can give you advice on mouth and throat problems and may be able to give you medication to help
My treatment leaves me with a dry mouth
- Carry your favorite calorie-containing drink around with you in a water bottle
- Use lots of fluids with meals to help keep food moist
- Keep gravies and sauces available to add to food to increase moisture
- Your nurse or doctor may be able to recommend a lip balm to keep your lips moist
Food tastes different to me since I started my treatment
- Many people with cancer find that the taste of food changes, which may be temporary. Try a variety of foods on a regular basis and you may find new favorites
- Try new herbs and spices to season your food
- If some drinks taste too strong or sweet, try watering them down
- Some people find cold or cool-temperature foods tastier than hot foods