Loss of Appetite and Weight Loss

There are a few reasons for the possible loss of appetite and/or weight with cancer and cancer treatment.  Biologically, the body has an increased requirement for energy, as well as a change in how the body digests and absorbs nutrients. Physically, the surgery could impair chewing, swallowing or other factors related to consuming food. Emotionally, you may experience some anxiety as well as changes in mood.

Unfortunately, when you are not able to gain nutrients, your body can become undernourished and in turn lose weight. An undernourished state could lessen the ability to fight off infections and impair the healing process.

It is important to have an individualized plan in order to recover a healthy weight. The key to successfully getting back on track is to create a diet densely packed with nutrients to fulfill your caloric needs. This may need to be accomplished in a gradual, stepwise fashion.

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