Eating Well During Chemotherapy: Gentle Strategies for Side Effects

Chemotherapy can affect more than just your body — it can reshape your relationship with food, appetite, and even comfort. At Flourish Cancer Nutrition, we understand that eating during treatment isn’t always straightforward. Our approach is rooted in compassion, clinical expertise, and the belief that nourishment should feel safe, flexible, and affirming.

Whether you’re managing nausea, navigating taste changes, or simply trying to get through the day, here are some gentle strategies to help you eat well — in ways that honour your body and your experience.

1. Navigating Nausea

Nausea is one of the most common side effects of chemotherapy, and it can make even the thought of food feel overwhelming. It’s okay to take things slowly.

Try this:

• Eat small amounts more often — even a few bites every couple of hours can help settle your stomach.

• Choose dry, bland foods like oatcakes, toast, plain rice, or crackers when nausea peaks.

• Sip ginger tea, peppermint water, or flat lemonade slowly throughout the day.

• Keep food smells to a minimum — cold meals, open windows, or eating in a well-ventilated space can help reduce triggers.

  
  

Gentle reminder: If nausea is persistent or affecting your ability to eat, speak to your care team. Anti-nausea medications and tailored nutrition support can make a real difference.

2. When Taste Changes Everything

Chemotherapy can alter taste and smell — making favourite foods taste metallic, bitter, or just “off.” This can be frustrating, but it’s also temporary.

Try this:

• Use plastic cutlery if food tastes metallic — it can reduce that sensation.

• Add a splash of citrus, herbs, or mild spices to brighten flavours.

• If meat tastes strange, try eggs, lentils, tofu, or dairy-based options for protein.

• Keep experimenting — what doesn’t work one week might feel okay the next.

Gentle reminder: There’s no “perfect” diet during treatment. Flexibility is a strength, and your preferences may shift day to day.

3. Managing Fatigue and Low Appetite

Fatigue can make cooking and eating feel exhausting. Appetite may dip, especially after infusions or during intense treatment cycles.

Try this:

• Batch-cook when you have energy, or ask a friend or carer to help prepare simple meals.

• Keep nourishing snacks nearby — yoghurt, smoothies, cheese and crackers, nut butter on toast.

• Eat when you feel most alert, even if it’s not a traditional mealtime.

• Don’t worry about portion sizes — consistency matters more than quantity.

Gentle reminder: Rest is part of healing. Nutrition can support you, not pressure you. Even small efforts count.

4. Staying Hydrated

Hydration supports energy, digestion, and overall wellbeing — but it’s easy to forget when you’re feeling unwell or fatigued.

Try this:

• Sip fluids throughout the day — water, herbal teas, diluted juice, or oral rehydration drinks.

• Use a straw or insulated bottle to make sipping easier and more appealing.

• Include hydrating foods like melon, cucumber, soups, and stewed fruits.

Gentle reminder: If you’re struggling with fluids, let your dietitian or nurse know. Dehydration can sneak up, and small tweaks can make a big difference.

5. Emotional Eating and Food Guilt

Chemotherapy can stir up emotions around food — from guilt about not eating “enough” to anxiety about making the “right” choices. At Flourish, we believe in nourishment without judgment.

Try this:

• Let go of rigid food rules — your body’s needs may change daily.

• Focus on comfort and consistency, not perfection.

• If you’re craving something specific, honour it — pleasure is part of healing.

• Talk to someone if food feels emotionally heavy — you’re not alone.

Gentle reminder: Food is more than fuel. It’s connection, comfort, and care. You deserve to feel safe and supported in your choices.

Flourish-Style Support

At Flourish Cancer Nutrition, we offer:

• Personalised nutrition advice based on your treatment, symptoms, and preferences

• Emotional support around food, body image, and appetite changes

• Resources for carers and clinicians to help you feel supported at every step

• Flexible consultations — in person, online, or at home — to meet you where you are

Whether you’re eating a full meal or just nibbling toast, you’re doing your best — and that’s enough.

Need tailored support during chemotherapy? Book a consultation or Refer a patient— we’re here to help you flourish, gently.