Eat little and often
Small meals and snacks can be easier to manage when your appetite is low. Try eating whenever you feel hungry.
Questions about eating or drinking?
This guide provides general information and practical tips, but everyone's needs are different.
If you're unsure about any of the advice or have concerns about your nutrition, we're here to help.
Mouth problems
A dry or sore mouth can make eating and drinking more difficult. These tips may help.
Dry mouth?
- Sip drinks frequently.
- Suck ice cubes, ice lollies or flavoured sweets and mints.
- Sharp flavours may help stimulate saliva.
- Try refreshing foods such as pineapple or melon.
- Artificial saliva gels or sprays may help.
Sore, dry mouth?
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Using a straw may make drinking easier.
- Choose soft, moist foods.
- Cold foods and drinks may feel soothing.
- Maintain good oral hygiene by brushing regularly with a soft toothbrush.
- Avoid foods and drinks that may irritate your mouth, such as spicy foods, alcohol, or food that is very hot or very cold.
Feeling sick
Illness, treatments and medication can sometimes cause nausea.
You could try:
- starting your day with lemonade.
- eating dry foods such as toast or crackers.
- trying ginger tea, ginger biscuits or crystallised ginger.
- sitting upright when eating
- avoiding lying down for 30-60 mins after eating.
- getting some fresh air after meals.
- eating little and often rather than waiting until you’re very hungry.
Feeling full
It is common to feel full even after small amounts of food.
Try to:
- eat smaller meals more often.
- choose foods you enjoy.
- avoid filling up on drinks before meals.
- be aware that rich or fatty foods can sometimes be harder to digest.
- stay as active as you can, as gentle movement may help digestion.
Diarrhoea
Diarrhoea can be a result of treatments like radiotherapy, which can irritate the intestines and cause diarrhoea. You may find it helpful to:
- drink extra fluids to replace those you’re losing.
- choose plain foods such as potatoes, rice, porridge and bread.
- cut back on spicy foods and alcohol.
- limit high-fibre foods like beans and nuts if they make symptoms worse.
- if it is related to antibiotics: try probiotic foods like live yoghurt, which supports healthy gut bacteria
Constipation
You may become constipated from eating little or due to treatments and some painkillers. It may help to:
- drink plenty of fluids, at least one and a half litres a day, unless you’ve been advised to restrict fluids.
- try a fruit or herbal tea.
- include fibre-rich foods such as fruit, vegetables and wholegrains.
- keep moving if you’re able to, a short walk in the morning can help to get things moving.
Lack of appetite
Losing your appetite can be normal, but it’s important to try to keep eating. Make sure what you eat is as nourishing as possible and try not to stress that you’re not eating enough.
Stress, anxiety and illness can all affect your appetite. Our wellbeing resources may help you relax and feel more comfortable.
Stress, anxiety and illness can all affect your appetite. Our wellbeing resources may help you relax and feel more comfortable.
Alcohol before meals
The occasional glass of alcohol half an hour before you eat can help.
Natural appetite stimulants
Cinnamon, cumin, parsley, sea salt and turmeric are appetite stimulants
Choose nourishing drinks
Smoothies and milkshakes can provide extra nutrition.
Add extra nutrition
Use full-fat ingredients, cheese or milk powder to increase calories and protein.
Be kind to yourself
Appetite changes are common. Try not to put pressure on yourself to finish meals.
How we can help
Alongside these resources, we offer a range of support to help you manage symptoms, maintain your wellbeing and get the care and guidance that's right for you.
Explore the support available from day one of diagnosis.