Hi my mum was diagnosed with secondary breast cancer Dec, she has started chemo tablets on her 5th week, I'm so concerned about her weight loss she has lost 17lb in 4 weeks her appetite is so good eating really well but still losing weight, is there anything I can buy or get to build her up, much appreciated
Hi Toots,
Thanks for getting in touch. I can see that you have found our breast cancer forum but wondered if you might find our carers forum of support too.
I understand your worry about mum’s weight loss, especially when she is having cancer treatment. It can be difficult to watch and make sense of, when as you say – mum is eating well. The fact that she is eating well means there are lots of options to increase her calories each day.
It is not necessarily about giving mum more to eat but about adding in calories to what she does eat. Although if losing weight, trying to have something to eat every couple of hours is suggested.
You might find our building up diet booklet helpful, or if easier this information is summarised on our website.
High calorie drinks or supplements are usually suggested for people who have lost their appetite or unable to eat. Often these are prescribed by a dietician if weight loss is concerning. You might want to include a home-made smoothie as an additional snack for example but not instead of a meal.
Perhaps because mum is still eating well her cancer team are not unduly concerned, but please do discuss your concerns with them and ask their advice.
Best wishes,
Kirsty Gill, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email.
Ref/LB
