Focus on energy and protein
If your appetite is low or you are losing weight, you may need more calories and protein. Eggs, yogurt, fish, chicken, beans and lentils can be useful choices, depending on what you tolerate. Ask your team which choices fit your health and treatment.
A restrictive weight-loss diet may be unsuitable during treatment. The aim is to meet your current needs, rather than follow a list of supposedly cancer-fighting foods.
Adjust meals when eating is difficult
For nausea, smaller meals, bland or cool foods, and avoiding smells that trigger sickness may help. Sip fluids regularly and use prescribed anti-nausea medicines as directed. Persistent symptoms need medical advice, not just a change of menu.
Tell your team about mouth pain, swallowing problems or diarrhea. Ask about food-safety precautions if treatment lowers your immunity. Advice should match the problem you are experiencing.
Check supplements and special diets
No special food, juice or supplement has been proved to cure cancer. Do not replace prescribed treatment with a diet or fasting plan. Herbs and high-dose vitamins can interfere with cancer medicines. Bring a list or photos of everything you take so your team can check it.
Ask for help before weight loss builds up
Report unplanned weight loss or reduced eating early. Note weight changes, symptoms and foods you can manage. Ask whether assessment by a qualified dietitian with cancer-care experience would help. Difficulty eating is a medical problem to address, not a failure of willpower.
Questions to ask at your consultation
- What should my nutrition and weight goals be during this treatment?
- Could my medicines or side effects explain why eating is difficult?
- Would dietitian advice or additional nutrition support help me?
Discuss your questions
Discuss eating difficulties or weight changes in the context of your cancer treatment. Bring your medication list and notes on your weight and symptoms; ask whether specialist nutrition support would help.
Outside Beirut? Video consultations are available.
Request a video consultationSodeco Square, Block B, 6th Floor, Beirut
Tayouneh clinic and appointments
Both clinics see patients by appointment, with flexible scheduling. Confirm a suitable time before visiting.
Related guides
Browse all patient guidesPatient information sources
- NCI — Nutrition During Cancer Treatment
- NCI — Weight Changes, Malnutrition, and Cancer
- NCI — Nausea and Vomiting and Cancer Treatment
- NCI — Complementary and Alternative Medicine
General patient information; your medical team can explain how it applies to you.
Sources checked: 4 October 2026.
This guide provides general information, not an individual diagnosis or treatment plan. For urgent symptoms, seek medical care rather than waiting for an appointment request.