Appetite Changes During Serious Illness: What You Need to Know
If you or someone you care for is living with a serious illness, you may have noticed a change in appetite. This is common, whether it shows up as smaller portions, less interest in favorite foods, or skipping meals altogether.
This can be hard on more than just the body. Food is tied to who we are and to our culture. For some of us, it may be how we show love, whether that’s cooking for someone or sharing a meal.
To learn more, we spoke with Rima Itani Al-Nimr, MS, RD, LD, a registered dietitian with years of experience working with patients and families. Here’s what she wants you to know.
Why Your Appetite May Be Changing
Appetite changes are a common part of serious illness, and they can happen for more than one reason. The cause is usually a symptom of the illness itself, or because of treatment like chemotherapy. This might mean nausea, an upset stomach, or food that suddenly tastes different, even metallic.
Fatigue, anxiety, and mood changes can play a role, too. When you move less, your appetite tends to go down along with it. And sometimes, if you’re so focused on appointments and treatment, eating may quietly fall to the bottom of the list.
When to Talk to Your Palliative Care Team
Let your palliative care team (or another doctor if you don’t have one yet) know if you notice any changes in your appetite. They’re here to help you navigate this, along with any other symptoms or challenges you may face. That might mean connecting you with a registered dietitian (they may have one at the hospital or medical center), or another resource in your community.
Ask About a Registered Dietitian
A registered dietitian can help figure out why your appetite is changing and offer ideas that fit your taste, life, and culture or religion. Food is personal, so this kind of one-on-one help can make a real difference. If you work with a registered dietitian, you’ll meet with them to set food and nutrition goals and build a plan, so your body gets what it needs.
There’s No Wrong Way to Eat Right Now
You may come across a lot of food and nutrition advice online, or from friends and family, who may have opinions about what you should and shouldn’t eat. If you’re living with a serious illness, Rima says it’s best to let most of that go. “One approach doesn’t fit everyone,” she explains. What matters most is eating what sounds good to you in the moment, as long as it’s safe to eat and fits with what you discussed with your care team.
“What matters most is eating what sounds good to you in the moment.”
Some days that might mean choosing food with more nutrients. Other days, it might mean a favorite treat. Basically, there is no “bad” or “good” food. The goal isn’t to have a perfect diet. It’s about getting through moments when appetite is low, since appetite changes tend to come and go rather than stay low forever.
Find Support Close to Home
If getting to a registered dietitian’s office isn’t an option, consider asking your palliative care team (or another doctor) about medically tailored meals. If you qualify and you receive a referral, you may be able to have prepared meals delivered directly to your home, based on what your body needs.
If you are having trouble with grocery shopping or accessing food, it’s important to let your palliative care team know. They’ll help connect you with food resources nearby (in addition to these fifteen programs).
It is also okay to accept help from family and friends when you are going through a difficult time. When people ask how they can help, consider giving them specific ideas, such as setting up a meal train to ensure you have meals available when you are unable to prepare them yourself.
“It’s okay to accept help when you’re going through a difficult time.”
What is Palliative Care?
Palliative care is specialized medical care for people living with a serious illness. This type of care is focused on relief from the symptoms and stress of a serious illness. The goal is to improve quality of life for both the patient and the family. Palliative care is provided by a specially trained team of doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, and other specialists who work together with your other doctors to provide an extra layer of support. It is appropriate at any age and at any stage in a serious illness and can be provided alongside curative treatments.
About GetPalliativeCare.org
GetPalliativeCare.org is an online resource for patients and families that focuses on providing information on palliative care from the point of diagnosis. At GetPalliativeCare.org, you can take a short quiz to see whether you could benefit from palliative care and find a nearby provider. The site is provided by the Center to Advance Palliative Care.
Please note: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your health care provider before making changes to your diet or nutrition.
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