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Radiation to the head and neck may change your sense of taste and smell. Foods may taste bitter, rancid, or lack any taste. If the tongue's lining and taste buds are changed during radiation therapy, you may experience aversions to foods that you once craved. After healing, your sense of taste may return partially or completely to its former state. However, this may take from 3-6 months after radiation therapy is completed.
It is important to notify your radiation oncologist or nurse regarding any symptomatology as soon as possible.
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Self care measures:
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If high protein foods such as meat and fish begin to lack appeal, consider ice cream, cheese, or peanut butter as a possible source. |
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Tart foods, such as foods prepared with oranges or lemons, may have more of a taste. Try marinating or flavoring meats with fruit juices, wine, Italian dressing, or sweet and sour sauce. Do not attempt to do this if you have a sore throat, a tender mouth, or any open lesions in your mouth. |
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Eat frequent, small meals. |
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Consider liquid high protein dietary supplements and milk shakes.
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Seasonings, including lemon juice, mint, basil, oregano, and rosemary will help improve the taste and aroma of food. Experiment with different flavors. If tooth decay is not a problem, extra sugar can be considered.
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It is important to eat and maintain adequate nutrition despite alterations in taste.
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Prepare foods that look and smell appealing.
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Ask your radiation oncologist before taking additional vitamin and mineral supplements.
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Avoid foods that adhere to the roof of your mouth.
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If not contraindicated, use lemon flavored drinks to stimulate production of saliva and taste.
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