| Decreased Appetite and Taste Changes | | | Decreased Appetite appetite is one of the most common side effects of cancer treatment. It can also be caused by the cancer itself or other side effects of treatment such as nausea and vomiting. Changes in taste can also occur with treatment and this can lead to a decreased desire to eat. Foods can start to have a bitter, metallic or even salty taste. It is important to continue to eat even when you do not feel like doing so. Think of food as one of the medications you must take every day. Try these tips to help manage these symptoms: Decreased Appetite - Eat smaller meals throughout more often throughout the day instead of 3 large meals
- Ask your dietitian or doctor a bout liquid nutritional supplements or "instant breakfast" drinks
- Keep nutritious snacks available so you can eat whenever you get the urge (nuts, muffins, peanut butter, yogurt, pudding, hardboiled eggs, milk, etc)
- Liquids can also provide calories and important nutrients when you do not feel like solid food. Try juices, soups or milkshakes.
- Add calories and protein to foods you can tolerate
- Ask your doctor about medications that can help increase your appetite
Taste Changes - Try using different marinades with your meat- honey, sweet and sour sauce, fruit juice, Italian dressing, sweet wine
- Season your food with lemons, vinegar, or pickled foods
- Make sure to practice proper mouth care.
- Try frozen fruit such as berries, orange slices, grapes or watermelon
- Use a saline solution to cleanse your taste buds:
Mix 1 teaspoon salt + 1 teaspoon baking soda into 1 quart of water (Use as mouthwash- do not drink) If foods taste bitter or metallic: - Use plastic silverware
- Flavor foods with herbs (such as oregano, basil, onion or garlic)
- Use ketchup, mustard, barbeque sauce to enhance flavor
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