Food intake

Hi Mary! I’m afraid I’m having the same problem. If you read Vinny’s post he has lots of suggestions. I got some protein shakes as he suggested . My Gp prescribed them but I think you can also send away for free samples. I’m sure they will work but I’m always so full from drinking water and herbal tea that I don’t seem to be able to eat much or even drink all the protein drinks. Absolutely no appetite! I am hoping it will improve now. I think I may have hit the wrong button, sorry

I have found this very hard as there is a need to get the calories in due to a smaller stomach, smaller meals.The dietitians and professionals recommend hourly snacks where possible and encourage several small meals.There was however no real advice on calorific values what was good, what wasn't, I think at one point a cup of tea and a few biscuits was suggested. I think that advice should be given that cancer thrives on sugars especially the refined type, the type you find in processed foods, sauces along with other additives aren't good for you (especially as they disguise the sugar content with other names which appear healthy sucrose, dextrose and fructose-fruit sugar in its natural form is ok but not in the complex form its added to prepacked foods) so prepare as much food freshly as you can batch cook if necessary. So I use coconut sugar, honey or maple syrup after the initial weight loss I have now maintained a steady 10 stone 2lbs size 12 for a good six months plus when i started on this esophageal cancer journey I was a size 20 16 stones.

I start at 8am with a good fruit melody every morning( strawberries, grapes, melon and a banana) and a probiotic drink, a hand full of nuts as mid morning snack, a sandwich at lunch or salad with rice/cous cous. Home made soups can be drunk in a cup middle afternoon or a piece of fruit, then a cooked meal small manageable, then pudding an hour later( again reduced sugar recipe) Last snack tends to be around 7pm as I tend to go to bed around 10pm

I juice too so will always makes juices from 1/3 fruit and 2/3 vegetables to get the goodness in.

I am am lactose intolerant so tend to use almond milk, coconut cheese,dairy free spreads, I try to stay plant based but will eat meat I do eat eggs three times a week for the protein and fish three times a week also.

Thanks for that , Tiddles. Do wish I could have a sandwich. I really miss bread- especially toast. I’m using some flatbread but it’s still not as good. 

Hi pJR and Tiddles, many thanks for your info on diet. I will especially try making juices and at the moment am trying calogen shots. I try to eat 2hrly but it is hard especially when busy. It is improving so I can’t grumble.

all the best Mary m

There is a great book I’ve purchased . 
it’s called soft foods  for easier eating from e bay. It’s a good read with some lovely recipes to help

Thanks, Mary M.