What if I do not Feel like Eating?

You may not feel well enough to eat while being treated for cancer. But it is important to eat as much as possible. Food helps your body build new healthy cells and also helps increase your energy level.

May help to eat several small meals a day instead of three large meals. Try eating bland foods like crackers, toast and broth. Sip water, juices and soft drinks. Ask your doctor whether you should take a nutritional supplement such as Ensure. Avoid spicy foods or foods with strong odors if they make you feel nauseous. You may also find it easier to eat and drink food and warm drinks.

Some people with cancer, especially people who are being treated with chemotherapy, have problems with ulcers or sore mouth. This may make it more difficult to eat. Try eating soft, bland food or cooked food which has been pureed in blender. If sores inside the mouth, tell your doctor. These ulcers can become infected and cause serious problems. You may want to take a straw (straw) to prevent ulcers in the mouth. Also, try rinsing your mouth with a teaspoon of baking soda dissolved in 8 ounces of water. This can help prevent infections of the mouth and help your mouth heal faster.

When you feel like eating, try to eat as much protein and calories as possible. Ask your doctor if you need to add certain nutrients or types of food to your diet. Your doctor may want you to go see a nutrition counselor who can help find ways to get the right amount of protein, calories and nutrients. If you realize you can not eat at all for more than 24 hours, call your doctor. Your doctor needs to know that you are not getting the nutrition they need.