Appetite changes are often attributed to illness or medications that treat the illness. Food often tastes different, and discomfort or nausea with eating can occur. Weight loss is common with serious illness. A patient may not necessarily be able to gain weight and feel better just by eating more. You and your Care Team can focus on ways to make eating and drinking as pleasant as possible. Please watch video for more tips.
- Arrange meals and snacks when energy is higher.
- Reduce pain when offering food. Sometimes medications for pain about an hour before a meal may help. Your nurse will help guide you.
- Try smaller, more frequent meals with favorite foods.
- Use smaller portions and smaller plates as they are less overwhelming.
- Avoid foods with strong odors and coarse textures.
- Light foods such as rice and vegetables may be easier to digest than meats, pastas, potatoes and bread.
- Choose soft foods if there is difficulty with chewing or swallowing.
- Ask your Care Team about thickeners that can help with swallowing drinks.
- Avoid foods that are excessively cold or hot.
- Consider larger-handled utensils and “sipper” cups.
- Check with your Care Team or medical provider to be sure that wine or other alcoholic beverages will not interfere with other medications.
