Dealing With Lack of Hunger

Most medicines cause lack of hunger. This can range from mild to severe. It can also lead to nutrition problems. It will not last long. A person with cancer should feel hungry again when treatment is done. Try these tips until then:

• Eat high-protein, high-calorie foods.
• Add extra calories and protein to meals with:
  • Milk powder
  • Protein powder
  • Peanut butter
  • Butter
  • Honey, jam, and sugar
  • Cheese and cream cheese
• Use liquid supplements that have extra nutrients.
• Drink shakes, smoothies, milk, and soup if solid foods are a problem.
• Eat soft foods that are easy to chew and swallow, such as:
  • Soft fruits—bananas, applesauce, watermelon, peaches, and pears
  • Cottage cheese
  • Mashed potatoes
  • Macaroni and cheese
  • Custards and puddings
  • Scrambled eggs
  • Oatmeal or other cooked cereals
• Eat snacks that are rich in protein and calories, such as:
  • Nuts
  • Cheese
  • Avocado spread on toast or crackers
  • Hard-boiled eggs
  • Full-fat yogurt
• Try to get a lot of calories at breakfast. It may be the easiest time of the day to eat.

Easing Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common problems during treatment. Medicines can help. They can be used before symptoms happen.

To manage this side effect:

• Eat before treatment.
• Eat dry, bland foods like crackers, toast, or breadsticks during the day.
• Sit up or lie down with the upper body raised for 1 hour after eating.
• Do not eat in a room where food was prepared. The odor may be too strong.
• Do not eat in a room that is too warm.
• Rinse the mouth before and after eating.
• Suck on hard candies to get rid of any bad taste left in the mouth after eating.

A dietitian can help a person plan meals that have enough calories and still ease nausea and vomiting.