Loss of Appetite
Weight Loss
Caring for Yourself
Nutrition Tips
Surgery , radiation , chemotherapy , and hormone therapy may affect your digestive system . These treatments target fast-growing cells found in the lining of the mouth and the digestive system . Damage to these healthy , fast-growing cells causes the side effects that may result in eating problems .
Tell your doctor or nurse if you are taking vitamins , herbs , or dietary supplements or are on a special diet . This is important because vitamins , herbs , supplements , and certain diets can affect how your body responds to your cancer treatments .
Your doctor may prescribe a special diet for you . There are many things you can try if you have any of the following side effects .
Loss of Appetite
Loss of appetite is one of the most common problems that occur with cancer and cancer treatment . Here are some ways to deal with this :
• Eat small , frequent meals throughout the day . You may be able to eat more without getting too full .
• Try liquid or powdered protein drinks such as Boost or Ensure when it is hard to eat solid food .
• Keep snacks close by and eat whenever you feel like it . Take a snack with you when you go out .
• Drink juice , soup , or milkshakes throughout the day if you do not feel like eating solid foods .
• Eat snacks before bedtime .
• Drink your liquids between meals so you are not too full to eat .
• Make your mealtimes relaxing and pleasant .
Weight Loss
Some people lose weight during cancer treatment . This may be due to the effects of cancer on your body or because you are eating less . To slow weight loss , you need to increase calories and protein in your diet .
Try these ways to control weight loss :
• Pick food that is high in calories .
• Eat favorite foods any time of the day .
• Eat your largest meal when you are most hungry during the day .
• Add butter or margarine to soup , gravy , or sauces on meat , rice , or potatoes .
• Use whole milk or cream on cereal , pureed vegetables , soup , or sauces .
• Add cheese to casseroles , potatoes , vegetables , eggs , or sandwiches .
• Use cream cheese or sour cream as dips , spreads , or toppings .
If you feel too full too fast :
• Eat small meals often — if needed , 6 to 8 times a day with healthful snacks in between , such as cheese and crackers , peanut butter and crackers , cottage cheese and fruit , milkshakes , or ice cream .
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