What to Eat for Appetite Loss

Most people stop eating when they lose their appetite. People lose their appetites with common illnesses, such as with a flu or cold, and also from more serious problems, such as a symptom or side effect of cancer/cancer treatment. It is important to begin eating, even if you don't feel like it.

Know When to Eat

• It is important to realize that there are times when you should force yourself to eat. Dehydration is the biggest concern when someone doesn't feel like eating. The first rule of thumb is to never force yourself to eat solid food when you are feeling sick. If you are sick because of a cold or flu, it may not be a good idea to eat solid food at all.

Knowing What to Eat

• If you are unsure as to what you can eat, start with clear, cool liquids. Teas are very easy on the stomach. Drinking iced tea or peppermint tea (warm) can help settle a stomach. Carbonated soft drinks are a good choice to help settle a stomach. Sip the drinks slowly, using a straw, if necessary. If the individual is able to keep the clear liquids down, they can try more solid foods, such as melted sorbet or toast with jelly. Avoid buttering the toast or eat the toast dry if jelly seems like too much.

More About Solid Foods

• Once you have determined that you can keep solid food down, move on to other choices, soups and broths are good. If you can't stomach chicken noodle soup or a more traditional soup, try plain chicken or vegetable broth. Mix in a little white rice, if you wish. Peanuts and small amounts of cheese are other choices. Crackers and dry sandwiches using lean meat, such as turkey or chicken, but without mayonnaise or mustard, may be okay too. The important thing is to eat slowly and start off small until you are sure that you can eat more.