Appetite Teasers After Treatment

Chemotherapy and radiation destroy fast-growing cancer cells. But the treatments also may affect stomach cells and taste buds. That’s why meat and other foods can taste like dust or metal. “The same food that tasted delicious on Monday can be disgusting on Tuesday,” says Samantha Schlitt, MS, RD. Fortunately, there are ways to trick the palate, enjoy mealtime and get nutrition.

Sneaky chef

Disguise the taste and texture of meat by marinating small pieces in lemon, fruit juice or Italian salad dressing. Then sneak it into a casserole or a stir fry with chopped veggies.

“Many patients crave salt or sweet flavors because it’s the only thing they can taste,” Samantha says.

Add sautéed fruit to sweeten meals. Try these combinations:

• Pineapple, chicken, veggies and soy sauce
• Apples, turkey, celery, poultry seasoning and onion salt
• Pears, salmon, dill weed and soy sauce

Or, for instant comfort food, add gravy to meat, vegetables, rice, beans, mashed potatoes, biscuits or toasted bread.

Blender banquets

Smoothies: Pick a protein – milk, yogurt, cottage cheese, nuts, seeds, tofu, peanut or almond butter, oats, soy milk, coconut milk or protein powder. Add kale or spinach. Hide the taste by blending with a ripe banana or other fruit.

Soups: Start with chicken broth, veggie broth or carrot juice. Microwave veggies – squash, peas, corn, beets, kale or spinach. Include soy sauce, coconut oil or even a little salad dressing. Select
spices: ginger, mint, basil, garlic or onion powder. Blend. Heat. Serve.

Desserts: Freeze a banana and blend it with a little milk or juice. Top it with crushed nuts and melted chocolate chips. Instead of bananas, try using peaches, strawberries or mangoes.

Table tips

Food serves many purposes, including coping with loneliness or low moods. Now’s the time to bring enjoyable sights and sounds to the table. Set your table with flowers and pretty plates. Share a meal with someone – in person or virtually. Eating alone? Listen to music or watch a video.