Coping with eating difficulties

Some people find eating a well-balanced diet difficult, especially if they have been seriously ill. Two common reasons for this are:

  • loss of appetite
  • feeling sick (nausea)
  • However, it is important to eat as well as possible. The following tips may help.

    Loss of appetite
  • Eat small but frequent meals – little and often.
  • Nutritious snacks may be better than one big meal.
  • Try to eat something every two hours, however small.
  • Tempt yourself with foods you like, you don’t have to have a ‘proper meal’; snacks are often easier to eat.
  • Don’t force yourself to eat food you don’t like.
  • Try to relax before and after you eat.
  • Take your time over eating – chew well and breathe steadily.
  • If you don’t feel like solid food, try a nourishing drink.
  • Nourishing drinks include homemade milkshakes and products such as Build Up, Complan, Recovery and Nourishment. These are available at most chemists. It is a good idea to check with your doctor or dietician first to see if they are suitable for you. Nutritious homemade milkshakes can include full-fat milk, honey, banana or puréed fruit and a little BuildUp or Complan. You can take these drinks between meals – this is especially helpful if you are only eating small amounts. Your doctor or dietician may prescribe other ready-made supplements if you have been ill or malnourished.

          Nausea 

  • If some smells make you feel sick, try a breath of fresh air before you eat.
  • Keep your mouth fresh by brushing your teeth, using a mouthwash or sucking mints.
  • Don’t let yourself get too hungry – hunger makes nausea worse.
  • Try to eat something every two hours, even if it’s only a small amount.
  • Cold snacks may be easier to cope with than a hot main meal, as they do not smell. Likewise, dry foods can be easier to face, so nibbling on crackers or plain biscuits can help reduce nausea.
  • It is not essential to have a ‘proper meal’; small snacks can be just as nutritious.
  • Is there a pattern? Do you always feel sick at the same time of day? If so, try eating at other times.
  • Avoid eating when you are very tired; rest and relax first.
  • If cooking makes the problem worse, try using ready-made meals or sandwiches.
  • Try sipping cold drinks slowly through a straw.
  • High-calorie and protein supplements may be a good idea if you find you are losing weight.

If you feel sick for more than a few days, or if you start being sick (vomiting), then talk to your doctor.