Cancer and Nutrition: What to Eat When Nothing Tastes Right

Changes in taste and smell are a frequent side effect of cancer treatment. And they’re usually temporary.

“Certain foods may now taste bitter, metallic, too sweet or salty — or not have much taste at all,” says Alison Meagher, a registered oncology dietitian at Scripps. “If your sense of smell is affected, this also may change the way food tastes.”

There are many simple ways to maintain a healthy diet during cancer treatment. 

Skipping your favorite foods on treatment days, trying cold or bland options, or switching to liquid meals, like smoothies, can all help.

If you’re having trouble eating or drinking, be sure to talk to your care team. A registered dietitian can help you create a plan to get the calories and nutrients you need to stay strong.

“If you experience persistent loss of appetite or feel nauseated and can’t eat for more than a day, contact your care team,” says Meagher. “A registered dietitian can help you develop a diet plan to get the nutrients and calories you need.”

These tips can help offset temporary changes in appetite, taste and smell after a cancer diagnosis:

Cooler, sweeter foods are often easier to tolerate.

• Eat foods at room temperature or cold
• Add natural sweeteners like honey, agave or fruit preserves
• Try marinades with citrus, vinegars, mustard or teriyaki
• Swap red meat for milder proteins like chicken, tofu, fish, eggs, nut butters or dairy

Metallic taste is common with chemotherapy. Use plastic or bamboo utensils.

• Avoid metal pots and pans
• Skip canned foods and drinks
• Rinse your mouth with water or a baking soda solution before meals

Stick with mild, comforting foods and cleanse your palate.

• Chew sugar-free gum or suck on lemon drops or peppermints
• Eat starchy foods like plain rice, pasta, bread or potatoes
• Choose bland options like cheese, eggs, oatmeal, creamy soups or nut butters
• Try breakfast foods — they’re often mid and easy to eat

Balance flavors by cutting sweetness and adding tangy flavors.

• Replace sweet fruits with vegetables
• Dilute juices and sweet drinks with water or ice
• Add sour ingredients like lemon, lime or vinegar (avoid if you have mouth sores)

Reduce saltiness with sweetness or low-sodium alternatives.

• Sweeten foods slightly with honey, syrup or fruit preservatives
• Choose no-salt added or low-sodium products
• Avoid adding salt when cooking

Boost flavor and texture to make meals more enjoyable.

• Use herbs and spices like basil, mint, cinnamon, garlic or chili powder
• Add flavor with mustard, vinegar, citrus juice or pickled foods (if tolerated)
• Try different textures — crispy, creamy, chewy — to make food more interesting
• Chew slowly to enhance taste

Reduce exposure to strong food odors:

• Eat foods cold or at room temperature
• Sip soups through a straw or use covered cups
• Have someone else cook or eat in a well-ventilated area
• Avoid slow cookers
• Avoid restaurants with strong smells

With the right guidance, eating during cancer treatment can become easier, more enjoyable and even empowering. Small changes, like trying new flavors or adjusting food textures or finding recipes that fit your needs, can make a big difference in how you feel each day and how you approach meals with confidence.

Scripps oncology dietitians provide personalized nutrition counseling to support you through every stage of cancer care. They will help you manage treatment side effects, prepare for surgery, follow special diets and promote healing and recovery. Their goal is to help you maintain strength and energy throughout your journey.

Scripps also offers free virtual nutrition classes for patients, caregivers and families. These classes cover topics, such as eating well during treatment and staying healthy afterward. They are designed to give you practical tools and confidence for everyday food choices. Ask your doctor for a referral to schedule an appointment in person, by video or by phone.