Loss of Appetite
When you have a loss of appetite or you "lose your appetite", you do not feel hungry or you have lost interest in eating. If this happens to you during cancer treatment, there are things you can do to improve your appetite. It is important, especially during treatment, to stay well-nourished, to keep your weight at a healthy level, and to stay hydrated.
Some symptoms from your cancer or treatment may cause loss of appetite:
You should talk with your provider if you have a loss of appetite or any of these symptoms.
Tips to Help with Loss of Appetite
There are many things you can do to help with your appetite. See what works best for you.
Have High-Calorie Foods and Beverages
- Choose high-calorie foods.
- Stay away from diet and low-fat foods.
- Add sauces, oils, condiments, or dressings to meals when possible to make it more appealing and add calories.
- Drink high-calorie beverages such as:
- Juices and fruit nectars.
- Milk, cocoa, and malted milk.
- Shakes and smoothies.
- Ovaltine®, Carnation Instant Breakfast®, Ensure®, and Boost®.
Eat Small, Frequent Meals
- Try to eat 5 to 6 mini meals throughout the day.
- Schedule your meals and snacks. When it’s time to eat, have a few mouthfuls, even if you aren't hungry.
- Serve small portions and use smaller dishes.
- Prep small meals and snacks ahead of time when you have energy so that they are ready for you.
Snacks
- Eat high-calorie snacks such as:
- Nuts, trail mixes, and nut butters.
- Dairy (cheese, ice cream, pudding, yogurt, cottage cheese).
- Breakfast bars and cereal.
- Eggs.
- Make a smoothie with fruit and ice cream or yogurt. Greek yogurt is even higher in protein than regular yogurt.
- Make a shake using ice cream and/or milk, Ovaltine®, Carnation Instant Breakfast®, and commercial nutritional drinks like Ensure® and Boost®.
- Keep snacks nearby so you can easily grab something when you feel hungry.
- Carry snacks with you when leaving your home.
Keep Trying
- Try different foods and drinks. Foods that you do not like one day may taste good another day.
- Try not to get upset if foods that you have always loved don’t sound good to you right now. This is not uncommon during treatment. Try again in a few days, because your taste may keep changing.
- If something sounds interesting, try it!
- Go to a buffet and sample different foods.
Eat When You are the Most Hungry
You may find it easier to make breakfast or lunch your "main" meal of the day. Focus on meals when your appetite is best and when you are able to eat the most. Often as you go through treatment, you will get less hungry as the day goes on.
Soft Foods and Liquids
Soft and smooth foods are easier to eat and digest when you don't feel well. Try to choose soft foods that are also high in calories:
- Casseroles.
- Macaroni and cheese and other pasta dishes.
- Hearty and creamy soups and stews.
- Eggs.
- Pancakes, waffles, and french toast.
- Mashed potatoes.
- Puddings, ice cream.
Eat High-Calorie Foods First
- At meals, eat foods with the most calories first. Start with protein (meat, chicken, and fish), then eat starches (potatoes, pasta). Eat vegetables last.
- Sip your drink during meals, as liquids will fill you up.
- Drink fluids between meals.
- Eat hearty or creamy soups. Broth-based soups do not have as many calories.
Count Calories
Write down everything you eat for a day and add up the calories. This will help you see how much you are eating. It will also help you find the foods that give you the most calories per serving. The calorie content of foods can be found on food labels. You can also find the calorie content of foods and online calorie trackers on the internet, or you can buy a calorie-counting book at most bookstores.
Other Ways to Help Your Appetite
- Try to do some physical activity before meals. Stretch or take a walk.
- Go to a restaurant for a change of scenery.
- Have meals with family and friends.
- Be sure to keep your mouth clean and moist when possible. Rinse your mouth and brush your teeth as needed throughout the day.
- Your provider may recommend medication to help stimulate (rev up) your appetite.
Loss of appetite can affect your health and wellness. If you are having issues with your appetite, be sure to talk with your provider or a dietitian.