Changes in Taste or Smell

Your name: Your e-mail address: Your friend's e-mail addresses:

(separate multiple addresses with comma)
Indicates required field
Message (limit 100 characters)
Enter answer below:

(Why the math? It protects against spam)
=
Send
Cancel
Your message has been successfully sent!

Chemotherapy, radiation, or the cancer itself may cause changes in taste or smell. Foods may have less taste to you, or your favorite foods may not taste good anymore. To combat changes, a doctor may:

• Give you special mouthwashes
• Set up a visit with your dentist for special mouth care

At home, try to alter your diet to combat weight loss due to taste changes:

• Prepare foods that look and smell good to you
• Marinate meats in sweet fruit juices or wines to combat bitter or metallic tastes
• Try using more seasonings
• Serve foods at room temperature
• Use fans or cook outdoors if cooking smells bother you
• Bacon, ham, or onions will add flavor to bland vegetables
• If you don't have mouth or throat sores, try using tart foods such as oranges or lemonade to add taste