1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237) 16 Ways to manage side effects Appetite changes What they are and why they occur Chemotherapy can cause appetite changes. You may lose your appetite because of nausea (feeling sick to your stomach), mouth and throat problems that make it painful to eat, or drugs that cause you to lose your taste for food. Appetite changes can also come from feeling depressed or tired. This problem may last for a day, a few weeks, or even months. It is important to eat well, even when you have no appetite. This means eating and drinking foods that have plenty of protein, vitamins, and calories. Eating well helps your body fight infection and repair tissues that are damaged by chemotherapy. Not eating well can lead to weight loss, weakness, and fatigue. Some cancer treatments cause weight gain or an increase in your appetite. Be sure to ask your doctor, nurse, or dietitian what types of appetite changes you might expect and how to manage them. Ways to manage appetite changes Eat five to six small meals or snacks each day instead of three big meals. Many people find it easier to eat smaller amounts more often. Choose foods and drinks that are high in calories and protein. See page 51 for a list of these foods. Set a daily schedule for eating your meals and snacks. Eat when it is time to eat, rather than when you feel hungry. You may not feel hungry while you are on chemotherapy, but you still need to eat. Drink milkshakes, smoothies, juice, or soup if you do not feel like eating solid foods. Liquids like these can help provide the protein, vitamins, and calories your body needs. See page 49 for a list of Clear liquids.
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