How Do Appetite and Taste Change During Cancer Treatment?
While your child is treated for cancer, they may say that certain foods do not taste the same. This temporary side effect of chemotherapy and radiation may cause foods to taste unpleasant, have a metallic taste or have no taste at all. Because of changes in appetite, your child may prefer to eat different foods during therapy. Some suggestions to help with taste changes include:
- Prepare foods that look and smell good to your child.
- Try using plastic utensils.
- Tart foods such as oranges and lemonade may have more flavor.
- Use seasonings, marinades, salt or sugar to improve flavor.
- Some patients prefer spicy foods during therapy.
- Barbecued or grilled foods may be more flavorful and moist than baked foods.
- Your child may prefer foods cold or at room temperature.
Decreased appetite is common during treatment. A dietitian will see your child during treatment and can provide tips to help with this. Some things you can do include:
- Encourage your child to eat small, frequent meals and snacks.
- Try to drink fluids between meals.
- Let your child eat whenever they are hungry and what they are craving.
- Try to eat high-calorie foods and drinks.
- Try milkshakes, smoothies or nutrition supplement drinks.
Weight Gain with Steroids
Sometimes children temporarily gain weight during treatment while on steroids. Nutrition is very important during therapy, so it is important not to limit caloric intake. Healthy snacks can be a good option. Talk to your care team with questions or concerns.
