Improving Appetite during Cancer Treatment: Natural Solutions

Anorexia is a common adverse effect of cancer treatments. It is defined as a loss of appetite, which causes you to eat less and lose weight, leaving you weary and weak. If not controlled properly and early, anorexia can develop into cachexia, which is a complex metabolic condition involving muscular wasting and weight loss.

Why is there loss of appetite during cancer treatment?

Loss of appetite in cancer can occur for a variety of reasons. Eating can be difficult due to pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhoea, as well as changes in taste or smell. Stress, despair, and dehydration can all affect appetite. In rare situations, some malignancies produce hormones that disrupt the body's hunger signals. Furthermore, several health conditions and the medications used to treat them may contribute to a decreased appetite.

Treatment for loss of appetite

Certain management strategies may help with loss of appetite.

• Treat causes leading to loss of appetite (smell, taste, and temperature of the food)
• Have a tailored plan by a dietitian to manage the energy deficit and appropriate essential nutrient intake
• Use medicines that may help with increase in appetite like metoclopramide, megestrol acetate, and olanzapine, after consultation with your doctor
• Medical cannabis or CBD oil can be used as a natural solution that helps with managing common side effects of cancer treatment such as loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting and pain. According to studies, patients with cancer who suffer from anorexia frequently report an increase in appetite after using cannabis. For example, persons with advanced cancer who participated in smaller THC studies reported enhanced taste and hunger.

Always consult your treating doctor before including medical cannabis in your treatment regime to avoid unwanted drug interactions.

Let’s look at some other important tips and lifestyle changes to manage loss of appetite during cancer treatment:

Dietary Changes:

• Eat when you feel hungry. You don’t have to wait for set mealtimes.
• Have nutrient-dense smaller meals and snacks frequently during the day, rather than 3 larger meals.
• Have your favourite foods any time of the day; for instance, if you like breakfast items, you can have them in the evening as well.
• Try taking only small sips of liquids while eating. This can help keep you from feeling full early.
• Try to drink most of your liquids between meals.
• If the smell of food makes you nauseous, try eating foods that are cold or at room temperature.

Lifestyle Changes:

• Keep meal times fun, relaxing or exciting as per your energy levels and mood. Engage with family members and loved ones, or watch TV and listen to music if that feels better.
• Be as active as you can. Start slowly and increase your activity over time.
• If you have nausea or pain, take medicines given to you by your cancer care team about 30 minutes before you plan to eat.
• Keep a variety of protein-rich snacks in your pantry that are easy to prepare and eat. These include yoghurt, cereal and milk, a sandwich, a bowl of hearty soup, and cheese and crackers.
• Continue multivitamins and supplements as prescribed by your doctor

About Qurist

Qurist understands the value of a natural approach to managing anorexia, nausea and pain during cancer treatment.

Why Choose Qurist:

• Natural Solutions: Premium CBD products that may support appetite loss and pain.
• Quality Standards: Every product tested for purity and potency
• Holistic Approach: Supporting multiple natural pathways to wellness
• Education Focused: Honest information about natural health options
• Non-Habit Forming: Plant-based support without dependency concerns

Used thoughtfully and with medical guidance, CBD oil can be a supportive tool to help patients regain comfort, reduce distressing symptoms, and stay better nourished through their treatment journey.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting a CBD supplement. CBD products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.