Food intake is an integral part of cancer treatment and recovery. When patients lose their appetite, they can also lose their strength and stamina needed to withstand chemotherapy and radiation. The Roswell Park Cancer Institute suggests starting with smaller, more frequent meals in an atmosphere conducive to relaxation. As always, it is imperative to consult the nutrition professional on the oncology team familiar with case-by-case dietary requirements before embarking on a diet that could ultimately aid the cancer.
Inviting Scents
Not all cancer patients will cringe at the slightest smell of foods being prepared. However, chemotherapy and radiation treatments can leave some individuals with a weak stomach when meats and similar foods with strong aromas are being cooked, turning them off from eating. Caregivers may try to stimulate the appetite by baking breads, cookies or garlicky foods, which are often more pleasant and can increase appetite. Roswell Park Cancer Institute suggests that when these scents are considered offensive, choosing cold foods like cottage cheese and fruits may be a more suitable option.
Eye Appeal
Variety and color can add eye appeal to each meal. While smaller, more frequent meals are suggested, using foods that are presented in a colorful palette may offer temptation to increase food intake. According to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, adding raw foods that include fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds and sprouts may add nutrient-dense foods to the diet that are full of enzymes and a lot of color. Protein can be an essential part of maintaining muscle mass and weight during cancer treatment. Therefore, the addition of cooked meat or tofu products with colorful fruits and vegetables can be a fun and effective way of getting the nourishment needed.
Seasoning Adjustment
Seasonings may need to be adjusted for taste and smell changes occurring due to cancer treatments. Some individuals will require a more bland diet, while others may need to add flavor or incorporate more exciting flavors to meals to make them more appealing. Duke Medicine's research on loss of taste and smell due to cancer treatments showed that patients generally ate more and had higher immune function when they ate foods enhanced with flavors of beef, bacon or cheese. While this may not suit all tastes, it is a strong indicator that playing with flavor in food can pay off.
Social Gatherings
Be social. Meals can be more enjoyable surrounded by loved ones. Roswell Park Institute suggests using soft music, attractive place settings and inviting company to reduce stress and enjoy meals more. Social gatherings can increase relaxation, reduce pressure on the act of eating, and make meal time less about food intake and more about spending quality time with others. Some doctors will also allow a glass of wine or a single beer in a patient's diet, and these have been shown to increase appetite as well.
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