Managing increased appetite during low-grade ovarian cancer treatment
Cancer treatment comes with many challenges and side effects. A common cancer treatment concern portrayed in media is loss of appetite caused by nausea, vomiting, and general fatigue. Thankfully, side effect management for nausea and vomiting has improved leaps and bounds in recent decades, and patients are now able to get relief from these side effects. On the opposite spectrum, an increase in appetite is lesser known but still common. In today’s post we will explore ways to manage increased appetite during cancer treatment.
Understanding increased appetite
Increased appetite might seem like a welcome change; however, managing appetite during cancer treatment presents its own challenges. Appetite changes during cancer treatment are often caused by medications. For instance, steroids are typically prescribed as part of treatment to manage inflammation and nausea but have their own side effect of making you hungry. Steroids may also increase cortisol levels, which often increases appetite and cravings for certain foods. Hormone-based therapies block certain hormones, causing hormone imbalances that can lead to increases in appetite. Additionally, the emotional stress of cancer and cancer treatment impacts the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline which can lead to increased hunger.
A balanced approach
A healthy eating pattern supports recovery during treatment. Managing increases in appetite requires a balanced approach. First, it is important to choose nutrient-rich foods that support recovery and overall health. Incorporate fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains at each meal to ensure your needs are met. Next, assess your hunger. Eating out of boredom or stress is common. Paying attention to hunger and fullness cues can help you understand when you are truly hungry or full. A helpful tool is the “Hunger-Satiety Rating Scale” located here. Being aware of portion sizes is also helpful. Using smaller plates can help prevent eating outside your fullness level.
Regular exercise can help manage appetite. Make sure to discuss any changes to your daily movement with your healthcare team.
A balanced approach including nutrient rich foods, assessing hunger, and being active can help manage your appetite. As always, your healthcare team can help you address increases in appetite and provide you additional strategies based on your needs. Take things one step—or bite—at a time and remember small choices can lead to better health over the long run!
This article is only for educational purposes and does not substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
What’s next
Protein intake is important during cancer treatment
Learn how to choose proteins during cancer treatment.
References
American Cancer Society. Hormone therapy for ovarian cancer. Accessed August 5, 2024. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/ovarian-cancer/treating/hormone-therapy.html
American Cancer Society. Weight changes. Accessed August 5, 2024. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/managing-cancer/side-effects/eating-problems/weight-changes
National Cancer Institute. Psychological stress and cancer. Accessed August 5, 2024. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/coping/feelings/stress-fact-sheet
American Diabetes Association. Get in touch with your appetite. Accessed August 5, 2024. https://diabetes.org/health-wellness/weight-management/get-touch-your-appetite
