Self-care
If you are sick or undergoing cancer treatment, you may not feel like eating. But it is important to get enough protein and calories so you do not lose too much weight. Eating well can help you handle your illness and the side effects of treatment better.
Change your eating habits to get more calories.
- Eat when you are hungry, not just at mealtimes.
- Eat 5 or 6 small meals a day instead of 3 large ones.
- Keep healthy snacks handy.
- DO NOT fill up on liquids before or during your meals.
- Ask your health care provider if you can sometimes have a glass of wine or beer with one of your meals. It may make you feel like eating more.
Ask others to prepare food for you. You may feel like eating, but you might not have enough energy to cook.
Make eating pleasant.
- Use soft lighting and play relaxing music.
- Eat with family or friends.
- Listen to the radio or watch TV.
- Try new recipes or new foods.
When you feel up to it, make some simple meals and freeze them to eat later. Ask your provider about "Meals on Wheels" or other programs that bring food to your house.
