Taste changes and anorexia

Thank you for getting in touch and welcome to the Online Community. My name is Donna. I’m one of the cancer information nurses on the Macmillan support line.  

I’m sorry to hear your dad is struggling with taste changes following chemotherapy for oesophageal cancer.  As informed, it is a common side effect of this treatment but nonetheless, you are correct in saying that if this is problematic and he is continuing to lose weight, he will get weaker and may not be able to cope with the treatment so well.

We can give some suggestions, tips and signposting to help, however we would suggest speaking to his oncology nurses with your concerns, again. Input from a dietician may be required.

Eating problems due to cancer and cancer treatment are a very real problem. General guidance is to try smaller meals more often, rather than 3 bigger meals. Regular snacks. Use a smaller plate and make food look attractive to eat. Sitting upright when eating. Add extra energy and protein to the food he is already having. The link also has information about the Macmillan Building up Diet booklet or audiobook you can order.

Regarding taste change specifically, some tips below may be useful:

• Avoid very hot or very cold food. Cool or warm foods may be more palatable
• If all food tastes the same, choose foods that have strong flavours.
• Add flavourings such as seasoning, spices, gravies. Bottled sauces can help to add flavours to a meal.
• Use plastic cutlery if food tastes metallic. Also, no food or drink from a can if this is an issue.
• Keep mouth clean, rinse mouth prior to eating. Good oral hygiene is important, ensure any mouth problems such as thrush or ulcers are reported.
• Tart foods have a strong taste. Consider citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges – this could be in yoghurts, sorbets or other foods (avoid them if his mouth is sore

Macmillan, alongside Penny Brohn UK and NHS, have a booklet entitled “Eating well when eating becomes difficult” which may be helpful. Also, the OPA charity have some recipe suggestions for people living with oesophageal cancer.

When caring for a loved one with cancer, it can be very difficult both physically and emotionally. It is important to look after yourself too. We would also encourage eating well, getting some exercise and making some time for you. Some people find it helpful to make time to speak to others about how they are feeling. This may be a friend or other family member or calling to speak to someone on our support line, on 0808 808 00 00(7 days a week, 8am-8pm).

I hope this information has been helpful,

Best wishes,

Donna
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist

Ref: DW/DC