Nutritional Management of Taste Alterations

Taste changes caused by cancer treatments can make food seem less appealing. Registered dietitian at Beaumont can recommend ways to spark up the flavor. Remember, eating well during treatment helps support recovery. 
 

Sometimes, cancer treatment causes temporary changes in the way foods taste. Some foods might taste like tin or taste bland, or have other unpleasant tastes. Taste changes can affect your appetite and desire for food. Use some of the suggestions below to make food taste more desirable:

  • Eat with plastic utensils
  • Marinate meats with sweet marinades or sauces
  • Offer salty or unsalted foods
  • Serve food chilled rather than hot
  • If foods taste bland, use extra seasonings, spices, and flavorings
  • Drink lemon-flavored drinks to stimulate saliva and taste
  • Keep the mouth clean with rinsing and brushing
Try to avoid the following:
  • red meats
  • chocolate
  • coffee
  • tea