Taste and appetite changes

The short version

  • Chemotherapy often changes how food tastes. Many people notice a metallic taste, or that food tastes bland or too strong.1
  • Simple changes can help, such as using plastic or wooden cutlery, adding sharp or fresh flavours, and rinsing your mouth before eating.1
  • Taste usually recovers after treatment, but it can take a while. Try to keep eating enough, and ask for a dietitian if you’re struggling.1

Tips that help

Tips for taste changes: plastic or wooden cutlery, sharp flavours such as lemon, marinades and sauces, and rinsing your mouth before eating.

If food tastes metallic1

  • Use wooden, bamboo or plastic cutlery instead of metal.
  • Try adding honey, basil, cinnamon or thyme.
  • Cold meals may taste better.

If food tastes bland1

  • Marinate meat or meat substitutes, for example in fruit juice with vinegar or soy sauce.
  • Add sauces and chutneys, such as cranberry or apple sauce.
  • Try sharp flavours like lemon, lime, vinegar or yoghurt, if your mouth isn’t sore.

If everything tastes too strong1

  • Choose neutral foods such as mashed potato, plain pasta or rice.
  • Notice whether warm or cold food tastes better.

Mouth care

  • Brush your teeth gently and keep your mouth clean.
  • Rinse your mouth or have a drink before eating to clear a bad taste.1
  • If your mouth is sore, avoid sharp, spicy or very hot foods, and tell your team.

Keeping your appetite up

  • Eat little and often, rather than big meals.
  • Eat more when you feel best, often in the morning.
  • Make each mouthful count: add protein and energy, such as milk, cheese, yoghurt or nut butters. See protein before surgery.
  • Try nourishing drinks, such as milkshakes or smoothies.
  • Gentle activity, such as a short walk, can help your appetite.

When to ask for help

Ask your team for a dietitian referral if you’re losing weight without trying, or finding it hard to eat enough. Tell your team if you have a sore mouth, mouth ulcers or white patches, as these may need treatment.

Free information

  • World Cancer Research Fund has a free guide to eating well during cancer.2

Related pages

Everyone’s treatment is different, so talk to your cancer team about what is right for you.

References

  1. World Cancer Research Fund. Taste changes: eat well during cancer. www.wcrf.org/uk/here-help/eat-well-during-cancer/common-cancer-side-effects/taste-changes
  2. World Cancer Research Fund, with the British Dietetic Association Oncology Specialist Group. Eat well during cancer (free guide). www.wcrf.org/living-well/living-with-cancer/eat-well-during-cancer/