Taste Impairment
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Chemotherapy, as well as cancer itself, may cause a decrease in appetite, but it is necessary to maintain good nutrition. During chemotherapy, flavors of some foods and beverages may taste unusually strong or intense. Others may taste bitter, particularly beef, pork, coffee, desserts, sweets or tomatoes. You may have a metallic or medicine-like taste in your mouth. Your sense of taste usually returns to normal a few weeks after chemotherapy treatment has been completed. If you need help while at home, please contact your healthcare provider.
Managing Nutritional Needs and Taste Changes
- Eat small, frequent meals in a soothing, restful place.
- Drink eight glasses of liquids each day to keep your body well hydrated.
- Include foods from all the food groups in your diet each day – this minimizes taste fatigue.
- Eating tart foods will help you overcome the metallic or bitter taste in your mouth.
- Chewing sugar-free gum or eating candies and mints will help control the metallic or bitter taste in your mouth and help relieve mouth dryness.
- Cold foods rather than hot foods may be more appealing.
- Use spices/flavorings to help improve the taste of your food such as: ginger, salt, cinnamon, vinegars, soy sauce.
- Frequently rinse your mouth with cool water, mint-flavored water, or a mild solution of baking soda and water Avoid the sight and smell of foods causing unpleasantness.
This information is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment.