An estimated 50% to 75% of individuals undergoing chemotherapy experience alterations in their sense of taste, which can make eating difficult and affect overall nutrition. This article provides practical strategies and food recommendations to help manage these changes.
General Strategies for Eating Comfortably
Adjusting eating habits can significantly improve comfort and food intake when taste changes occur. Eating smaller meals more frequently throughout the day can be beneficial, as large meals might feel overwhelming or trigger nausea. Instead of three large meals, consider 5-6 smaller meals or snacks. This approach helps ensure a steady intake of nutrients without overburdening the digestive system.
Maintaining good oral hygiene is important, as it can help manage taste changes and prevent mouth issues. Brushing teeth and tongue gently, and rinsing the mouth before and after meals, can help clear unpleasant tastes. Some find a rinse of baking soda and salt in water helpful for this purpose.
The type of utensils used can impact the taste experience, especially if a metallic taste is present. Using plastic, wooden, or bamboo cutlery instead of metal can reduce this sensation. Adjusting food temperature can also make a difference; many find that foods served cold or at room temperature have less intense odors and may be more palatable than hot foods. Creating a relaxed and pleasant eating environment can also encourage better food intake.
Food Choices to Combat Taste Changes
Specific food choices can help address taste alterations experienced during chemotherapy. If foods taste metallic or bitter, incorporating tart or acidic options can be helpful. Lemon, citrus fruits, and vinegar-based dressings can stimulate taste buds. Using herbs and spices, or marinades, can enhance flavor, but this should be avoided if mouth sores are present. Some individuals find relief by trying sugar-free mints or gum, or by avoiding canned foods which might exacerbate a metallic taste.
When food tastes bland or has little flavor, bolder seasonings and new flavor profiles can make meals more appealing. Marinades, strong spices, pickled items, or sharp cheeses can add intensity. Experimenting with different foods and flavors is often a process of trial and error. Conversely, if foods taste too sweet, adding a pinch of salt or a squeeze of lemon juice can help balance the flavor.
Smell sensitivity is another common issue that can affect appetite. Foods with strong odors, particularly hot foods, may be off-putting. Opting for cold or room-temperature foods, which typically have less aroma, can make them easier to tolerate. Poultry, eggs, and dairy products often have milder smells compared to red meat or fish, which some individuals might find more agreeable.
Navigating Other Common Eating Difficulties
Beyond taste changes, chemotherapy can bring other eating-related challenges that require specific dietary adjustments. Nausea and vomiting are frequent side effects, and managing them often involves choosing bland, easy-to-digest foods. Options like plain toast, crackers, rice, and clear broths are generally well-tolerated. Avoiding greasy, fried, or strong-smelling foods can help prevent nausea from worsening. Staying adequately hydrated by sipping clear liquids between meals is also important.
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can make chewing and swallowing difficult due to reduced saliva production. Moist foods, such as those with sauces, gravies, or broths, can be easier to consume. Sucking on ice chips, sugar-free candies, or popsicles can stimulate saliva flow and provide moisture. Frequent sips of water throughout the day also help keep the mouth hydrated.
Sore mouth or throat, known as mucositis, can cause significant pain and discomfort when eating. Soft, smooth foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, cream soups, and smoothies are often the most comfortable options. It is generally advisable to avoid acidic, spicy, salty, or crunchy foods that can irritate the sensitive tissues. Consuming foods at lukewarm or cool temperatures may also be more soothing.
Loss of appetite, or anorexia, can lead to insufficient calorie and protein intake. Focusing on nutrient-dense foods in small, frequent portions helps maximize nutritional intake even when appetite is low. High-calorie and high-protein foods, such as fortified shakes, eggs, and cheese, can be beneficial. Making eating a less pressured activity and accepting assistance with meal preparation can also ease the burden.
Prioritizing Nutrition and Professional Support
Maintaining good nutrition and hydration throughout chemotherapy is important for overall well-being and recovery. Adequate calorie and protein intake helps preserve muscle mass, supports immune function, and can improve tolerance to treatment and side effects. Fueling the body properly can also contribute to faster healing and better energy levels.
If difficulties with eating and nutrition persist, or if weight loss becomes a concern, seeking professional help is beneficial. An oncology dietitian is a specialized healthcare professional who provides personalized nutrition counseling tailored to the unique needs of cancer patients. They can offer strategies for managing side effects, preventing malnutrition, and ensuring adequate nutrient intake. Consulting with the broader healthcare team, including doctors and nurses, is advisable for any ongoing concerns. Keeping a food diary can track food intake and identify patterns, which can then be shared with the care team for more targeted advice.