The nutrition team caring for you will respond individually to any problems and difficulties and adjust the intake of nutrients to suit you. Trust the recommendations from your doctor, dietitians and other healthcare professionals.
Taste changes are common during and after treatment for cancer. It can be a side effect of chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy and there is no need to worry. Many people report a metallic taste, it might be worth trying to use plastic cutlery - this may be a simple solution to the problem. There is no need to worry about preferring just a few simple foods that you enjoy for a long time. After a while you will feel like trying other things again. It just takes time. Using oral nutritional supplements can be a good way of reducing the concern you may have whilst your oral intake is limited.
If it is painful to eat or swallow liquid food or soft food such as soups, pasta or puree can make swallowing easier. Try avoiding very hot or very cold food/drinks as these can further add to that pain. In addition, avoid consuming acidic food/drinks such as fruit juices as they may irritate the inflammed cells. Food and drink supplements such as Fresubin and Supportan provide nutrients and energy in concentrated liquid form and you can get your nutrients without the need to chew in case it hurts. Ask your doctor about an individual solution.
Eat when you feel well. It is better to eat small portions at mealtimes and spread them out regularly throughout the day. Take advantage of the good days to eat plenty, in the most pleasant environment possible. Try to keep a stock of food that is quick and easy to prepare.
Nutrition regulates the digestion. In the event of constipation, taking in more liquids in the form of herbal teas, fruit juice or water can lead to improvement. Prunes or syrup of figs together with fluids and fermented milk products like yoghurt have a natural laxative effect. In the event of diarrhoea, on the other hand, easily digested foods are suitable: cooked vegetables, rice, fish, potatoes, lean meat. You should avoid foods that cause flatulence, such as pulses, onions or cauliflower. As with everything, check with your health care professionals if you are unsure on which foods to consume.
