Chemotherapy often leads to dysgeusia, or altered taste. This can manifest as a metallic, bitter, or unpleasant taste, making food unappealing and affecting overall well-being. It is a common issue for those undergoing cancer treatment, impacting how food tastes and smells.
Dietary Strategies for Taste Relief
Managing taste changes often involves adjusting food and drink choices. Bland, soft, or cool foods are often more tolerable, such as poultry, fish, eggs, yogurt, and fresh fruits. Incorporating tart or sour flavors, such as lemon, lime, or citrus fruits, can help stimulate saliva production and cut through metallic tastes, provided there are no mouth sores present. Some people also find that adding artificial flavorings or extracts can enhance the taste of meals.
Conversely, certain foods might worsen the unpleasant taste or irritate the mouth. Highly acidic, spicy, sugary, or fatty foods may be challenging to consume. Red meat frequently tastes metallic to those undergoing chemotherapy, so exploring alternative protein sources like chicken, turkey, eggs, or plant-based options such as tofu and beans can be beneficial. Avoiding canned foods and opting for items in glass or plastic containers may also reduce metallic tastes.
Staying well-hydrated is important, but plain water can sometimes taste different. Infusing water with cucumber, mint, or lemon, or consuming diluted fruit juices, can make hydration more palatable. Drinking small sips of liquid throughout meals can also help to rinse the mouth and clear lingering tastes.
Oral Hygiene Practices
Maintaining good oral hygiene is a practical step to alleviate altered tastes. Brushing teeth and the tongue gently at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush. This practice helps remove food particles and can reduce bad tastes.
Frequent rinsing of the mouth can also provide relief. A solution of one teaspoon of baking soda and one teaspoon of salt mixed in a quart (4 cups) of warm water can be used often, such as before and after meals and throughout the day. These rinses help neutralize acids and soothe irritation. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes, as they can cause further irritation.
Gently flossing daily can also contribute to improved oral health and taste, though care should be taken to avoid bleeding. Regular dental check-ups are advised to address any developing oral issues.
Practical Tips for Managing Meals
Beyond specific food choices and oral care, several practical adjustments to meal preparation and eating habits can help manage taste changes. Eating foods at room temperature or cold can minimize strong odors that might intensify unpleasant tastes, as hot foods tend to release more aromas. Using plastic or bamboo utensils instead of metal ones can prevent or reduce a metallic taste.
Eating smaller portions more frequently throughout the day, rather than three large meals, can prevent overwhelming the senses and help ensure adequate nutritional intake. It can also be helpful to eat by the clock rather than waiting for hunger cues. Cooking methods that produce fewer strong odors, such as baking or boiling, may be more tolerable than frying. Enhancing flavors with herbs, spices, or marinades can make food more appealing without relying on excessive salt or sugar. Marinating meats in fruit juices or other flavorful sauces can also improve their taste.
When to Consult a Healthcare Provider
While many taste changes are manageable with dietary and hygiene adjustments, there are instances when consulting a healthcare provider is important. If taste changes are severe, persistent, or significantly affect your ability to eat and maintain your quality of life, speak with your doctor or oncology team.
Significant weight loss or signs of dehydration warrant immediate medical attention. Any new symptoms such as mouth sores, pain, or infections should be reported to your care team. A registered dietitian specializing in oncology can provide personalized nutritional guidance and strategies to help manage taste alterations and ensure adequate nutrient intake during treatment.