Eating problems

Weight loss and poor appetite are common in cancer and chronic illnesses. Both can affect energy levels and quality of life and can cause anxiety in people who have an illness and their carers. Loss of appetite may cause withdrawal and isolation if you do not feel like joining others for a meal.

Some people have a loss of appetite and a loss of taste due to their treatment. If you notice these problems, it may be helpful to discuss them with a dietitian at the hospital or if you are at home, with your doctor or nurse who may then refer you to a community dietician. They should be able to help you with any eating difficulties and suggest how to make food more palatable.

• Eat little amounts as often as possible if you cannot face big meals. Try to have a small portion of food every two hours during the day.
• Tempt your taste buds by making your food look as attractive as possible. Put small portions on your plate and garnish the food with lemon, tomato or parsley.
• A glass of sherry or brandy half an hour before a meal is a good way of stimulating your appetite. Some people find a glass of wine with their meals helps their digestion.
• Keep snacks handy to nibble whenever you can. Bags of nuts, crisps, dried fruit or a bowl of grated cheese are quite light and tasty. If these are hard for you to swallow, a yoghurt or fromage frais may slip down more easily.
• Sweet or savoury nourishing drinks can be used to replace small meals and can be sipped slowly over the course of a day.
• Eat your meals slowly, chew the food well and relax for a little while after each meal.
• Sometimes the smell of food cooking can be appetising, but occasionally it can put you off eating. If cooking smells spoil your appetite, keep away from the kitchen and ask your family or friends to cook, or eat cold foods attractively presented.
• Everyone’s appetite changes and you may have good and bad days. Make the most of the good days by eating well and treating yourself to your favourite foods.
• Have your meals in a room where you feel relaxed and without distractions.
• It may be possible to stimulate your appetite using medicines. Your doctor may prescribe these for you.