General Discussion

Eat often. The goal to promote weight gain and combat a poor appetite is to eat regularly throughout the day. You may be used to eating only 2-3 times per day, but while you are actively fighting cancer, it is recommended to eat at least 5-6 times daily. Eating often can stimulate your appetite and provide additional calories to encourage weight gain. If you are not hungry, it is hard to remember to eat. Try setting an alarm on your watch or phone to remind you to eat a meal or snack.

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Drink your calories. 100% fruit juice and milk or milk alternatives can provide hydration, while also providing extra calories. When you are not feeling like eating or having nausea, liquids are usually easier to consume than solid foods. Smoothies and nutritional drinks are good options for high calorie snacks in between meals. If you are experiencing diarrhea, gas, or bloating from your cancer treatment talk to your dietitian about the best kinds for you.

Stay on a schedule and plan ahead. During your cancer treatments it is important to start an eating and drinking schedule and stick with it. Drinking your fluids in between meals can prevent filling up on fluid during meal time. Planning your meals out the day before can not only increase how much you eat, but also help promote weight gain and improve your nutritional status. Utilize friends and family to help you plan ahead and stay on track.