Eating problems during cancer treatment: Causes, challenges, and practical solutions

Cancer and its treatments can greatly influence eating habits, making it difficult to maintain proper nutrition. Side effects such as loss of appetite, taste alterations, nausea, and digestive issues often interfere with regular meals. These challenges can lead to unintentional weight loss, weakness, and reduced energy, which may affect recovery and overall health. Good nutrition is essential for supporting the immune system, maintaining strength, and coping with treatment. However, the physical and emotional toll of cancer often makes eating feel overwhelming. Understanding why these problems occur and learning practical strategies can help patients stay nourished and improve their quality of life.Cancer and its treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, immunotherapy, and surgery, can influence your ability or desire to eat. Here’s why:Good nutrition is vital to support healing, maintain muscle mass, and help the body tolerate treatments. Understanding these issues is the first step toward managing them effectively.The study Nutrition Impact Symptoms During Cancer Treatment highlights that cancer therapies like chemotherapy and radiotherapy often cause appetite loss, taste alterations, and digestive problems, leading to malnutrition and reduced quality of life. It stresses the need for early dietary interventions and personalised nutrition strategies to help patients maintain strength and support recovery.1. Loss of appetiteReduced appetite is one of the most common issues. You may feel full quickly, have no interest in food, or dislike the smell of meals. Over time, this can lead to weight loss and weakness.Tip: Focus on small, energy-dense meals instead of three large ones. Include calorie-rich snacks like nut butter, cheese, or smoothies.2. Taste and smell changesTreatment can alter taste buds, making food taste bland, metallic, or overly sweet. Strong smells can trigger nausea.Tip: Try cold foods like salads, yoghurt, or sandwiches as they usually have a milder aroma. Use herbs or citrus for gentle flavour boosts.3. Nausea, vomiting, and indigestionThese symptoms often occur during chemotherapy or radiotherapy. They make eating uncomfortable and can lead to dehydration.Tip: Stick to light, bland meals such as plain toast or rice. Sip ginger tea or clear fluids to ease nausea. Avoid greasy or spicy foods.4. Sore mouth or throatMucositis, dry mouth, or ulcers can make chewing and swallowing painful.Tip: Opt for soft, moist foods like soups, mashed potatoes, or yoghurt. Avoid rough or acidic foods that may irritate the mouth lining.5. Digestive problemsConstipation, diarrhoea, or bloating may occur due to medication or reduced physical activity.Tip: Stay hydrated and adjust fibre intake based on your symptoms. For constipation, add gentle fibre like oats; for diarrhoea, stick to low-fibre, binding foods like bananas and rice.If you’re struggling to maintain your weight or notice persistent eating problems, speak to your cancer care team. A registered dietitian can help by:Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health routine or treatment.Also read | How to prevent kidney stones: Lifestyle changes and diet tips