Taste changes

Some people with cancer find that their taste changes, although this is usually temporary. They may no longer enjoy certain foods or find that all foods taste the same, or they notice a metallic taste in their mouths. Occasionally, they can’t taste anything at all.

If your taste changes, here are some tips for making your food more palatable:

• Concentrate on eating the foods that you like the taste of and ignore those that do not appeal to you. However, do try them again after a few weeks, as your taste may have gone back to normal.
• Use seasonings and herbs like rosemary, basil and mint, and spices to flavour your cooking. However, if your mouth is sore you may find that some spices and seasonings make it worse.
• Try marinating meat in fruit juices or wine, or dress it in strong sauces like sweet and sour or curry. Cold meats may taste better garnished with pickle or chutney.
• Sharp-tasting foods like fresh fruit, fruit juices and bitter boiled sweets are refreshing and leave a pleasant taste in the mouth.
• Some people might go off the taste of tea or coffee. You could try a refreshing lemon or green tea instead or perhaps an ice-cold fizzy drink like lemonade.
• Some people find that cold foods taste more palatable than hot foods.
• Serve fish, chicken and egg dishes with sauces.