Radiotherapy and Nutrition: What to Eat When Everything Tastes Different

Radiotherapy can be a powerful part of cancer treatment — but it often comes with unexpected changes to taste, smell, and appetite. For many people, food that once felt comforting or familiar suddenly tastes metallic, bland, or just “wrong.” This can be frustrating, isolating, and emotionally draining.

At Flourish, we understand that eating during radiotherapy isn’t just about nutrients — it’s about dignity, comfort, and finding ways to nourish yourself when everything feels different. Here are some gentle, evidence-based strategies to help you navigate taste changes with clarity and compassion.

Why Does Radiotherapy Affect Taste?

Taste changes during radiotherapy are common, especially if treatment involves the head, neck, or digestive tract. Radiation can temporarily damage taste buds, reduce saliva production, or alter how flavours are processed. Some people experience:

• A metallic or bitter taste

• Loss of taste altogether

• Heightened sensitivity to certain flavours

• Changes in smell that affect appetite

These symptoms may come and go, and they often improve after treatment ends — but they can make daily eating feel like a challenge.

Gentle Strategies for Taste Changes

1. Brighten with Acidity

If food tastes dull or flat, adding a splash of acidity can help lift flavours.

• Try lemon juice, vinegar, or citrus zest on vegetables, grains, or proteins.

• Use pickles, chutneys, or lightly fermented foods to add contrast.

Tip: Avoid acidic foods if you have mouth ulcers or soreness — opt for milder flavour enhancers like herbs or gentle spices.

2. Switch Up Proteins

Meat can taste metallic or unpleasant during radiotherapy. If that’s the case:

• Try eggs, dairy, tofu, lentils, or nut butters as alternative protein sources.

• Mild-flavoured options like poached chicken or white fish may be easier to tolerate.

• Cold proteins (e.g. egg mayo, cottage cheese) often taste better than hot ones.

Tip: Use plastic cutlery to reduce metallic taste — it really can help.

3. Play with Texture

When taste is unreliable, texture can become a source of comfort.

• Crunchy foods like toast, crackers, or raw vegetables may feel more satisfying.

• Soft, creamy options like smoothies, soups, or mashed potatoes can be soothing.

• Layer textures — e.g. yoghurt with granola, soup with croutons — to add interest.

Tip: If dry mouth is an issue, pair crunchy foods with dips or sauces to ease swallowing.

4. Keep It Cool

Hot foods often release stronger smells, which can worsen taste aversions.

• Try cold meals like pasta salads, overnight oats, or chilled soups.

• Let hot meals cool slightly before eating to reduce steam and aroma.

Tip: Eating in a well-ventilated space or using a fan nearby can help reduce smell sensitivity.

5. Small Portions, Often

If food feels overwhelming, reduce the pressure by eating little and often.

• Grazing throughout the day can help maintain energy and nutrient intake.

• Keep easy snacks nearby — cheese cubes, fruit slices, oatcakes, or yoghurt pots.

• Don’t worry about traditional mealtimes — listen to your body’s rhythms.

Tip: If appetite is low, focus on energy-dense foods in small amounts (e.g. nut butter, full-fat dairy, avocado).

Emotional Impact of Taste Changes

Taste loss or distortion can feel deeply personal. It may affect your mood, your social life, and your sense of self. You might grieve the foods you used to love, or feel disconnected from shared meals.

At Flourish, we hold space for these feelings. Nutrition isn’t just about what’s on the plate — it’s about how food makes you feel, and how it connects you to comfort, culture, and care.

Flourish-Style Support

We offer:

• Personalised nutrition advice based on your treatment and symptoms

• Emotional support around food changes and body image

• Resources for carers supporting someone through radiotherapy

• Flexible consultations — in person, online, or at home

Whether you’re rediscovering flavours or simply trying to get through the day, you deserve support that meets you with kindness and clarity.

Need tailored support during radiotherapy? Book a consultation or Refer a patient — Flourish is here to help you eat well, gently.