Preventing weight loss

Weight loss is partly due to the effects of the cancer itself on the body. Also, if you've lost your appetite and are eating less than usual because of your treatment or emotional worries, you may lose weight.

Both nutrition support and drugs may help you maintain a healthy weight. Your doctor and dietitian can help you determine your healthy weight goal and your individual calorie and nutrient needs. The types of drugs commonly used to relieve these symptoms and side effects include medicines to prevent nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea, pancreatic enzymes, laxatives (to promote bowel movements) and medicines for mouth problems (to clean the mouth, stimulate saliva, prevent infections, relieve pain, and heal sores).

Here are some ideas for slowing weight loss or even gaining a few pounds through eating:

  • Eat several small meals or snacks a day (5-6) instead of three large meals.
  • Keep favourite foods around the house. That way you may find yourself eating more often.
  • When eating a meal, eat high-protein foods first, when your appetite is strongest. Some examples of high-protein foods are chicken, fish, meat, yoghurt, eggs, nuts, beans and tofu.
  • Eat the most when you feel hungriest. If you are very hungry at breakfast or lunch, make that your largest meal of the day, even if you would typically eat a smaller meal at that time.
  • Go for a walk before mealtime to stimulate your appetite.
  • Take an interest in food by trying new recipes and products or occasionally eating in a favourite restaurant.
  • If the odours of food bother you, try eating things cold or at room temperature and eat in a different room to where the foods is cooked.
  • Experiment with new or different seasonings.
  • Make mealtimes more leisurely – take your time at the table.
  • Drink fluids between meals instead of with meals. Drinking fluids while you eat can make you feel full faster.
  • Sip on higher-calorie beverages during the day such as juice, milk or a fruit and yoghurt smoothies.
  • Ask your doctor, nurse or dietitian about nutritional supplements. These come in a variety of styles and flavours and are easy to swallow and digest.

Source: National Cancer Institute, Nutrition in cancer Editorial Board