Loss of appetite

Losing your appetite, and not wanting to drink are common symptoms and occur for different reasons. Pain, constipation, nausea and vomiting can have an effect on your appetite, as well as the side-effects of medications. Some treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy can contribute to a loss of interest in eating and drinking and can cause additional concerns, such as a sore mouth, persistent diarrhoea or changes to your sense of taste.

Loss of appetite suggestions

• • Dehydration is a complication of loss of appetite, so it is important to ensure adequate fluid intake. Fluids can be in the form of drinks, or fluid-based “foods” such as ice-cream, custard or jelly.
• • Try eating several small meals throughout the day.
• •  Avoid fatty, heavy foods.
• • Try eating small tubs of mousse, yoghurt, ready to use custard, jelly or smoothies which provide fluids as well as energy so will assist with hydration.
• • Try having finger-food accessible, as “grazing” (eating small amounts all day) will help.
• • High calorie protein supplements such as Sustagen, Ensure or Resource (if able to tolerate) are easy to consume and beneficial.
• • Ensure good ventilation when preparing foods as some smells can negatively affect your interest in food.
• • Consider both cold food and hot food options.
• • Let your family and/or carer know what foods you prefer – your taste may have changed recently.