Diet and Chemotherapy
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Diet and Chemotherapy |
Posted September 8th, 2006
Bitter tasting food, loss of apetite and nausea are all common side effects of chemotherapy. Try these tips if you are experiencing difficulty with eating during chemotherapy.
Are your tastes changing?
- If food tastes bitter or metallic, try using lemon juice as a mouthwash before meals. Avoid saccharin sweeteners.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice if food tastes too sweet.
- If red meat tastes unpleasant, try cold meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, beans or nuts
- If food has less flavour, try marinating meat with some oil, herbs and crushed garlic. Add condensed soup to minced meat and casseroles.
Lost your apetite?
- If you don't feel hungry, try taking some fresh air before a meal. Even a few minutes on the doorstep can help.
- Try adding colourful garnishes to your food such as fresh parsley, a slice of lemon or a strawberry.
- Eat little but often.
Do you feel sick?
- Ask your doctor or care nurse about anti-nausea medication.
- Avoid greasy, fried or very spicy foods
- Sit up whilst eating and don't lie down immediately after eating.
- Take drinks an hour after food.
Does your mouth of throat feel dry or sore?
- Drink plenty of fluids. Take regular sips or use a straw.
- Suck ice cubes, ice pops or sweets.
- Add plenty of gravy, sauces, milk or cream to dishes.
- Avoid very hot, spicy or salty foods, or rough foods like toast or certain breads.
- Ask your pharmacist or nurse about artificial saliva sprays or pastilles.
Further tips:
- Cancer treatments can make you prone to food bugs so make sure food is cooked thoroughly, especially eggs and meats. Wash your hands well and often, especially before handling food.
- Tea, coffee and cola are all high in tannin, which stops you absorbing iron from food. Take these drinks between meals, not with them.