My Oncologist told me 10 yrs ago to only eat what I knew I was putting in my mouth. So many foods have additives, preservatives and sodium. I like oatmeal, cr of wheat, fresh fruit, applesauce, steamed broccoli, fresh & frozen veggies, mashed potatoes and buttered pasta. I drink lots of water and Propel. Not crazy about Gatorade. No processed meat, very few canned items and limit sugar. Eating can be challenging, if it causes GI issues do not eat it again. I always eat something when taking meds like Greek yogurt or applesauce. Best wishes to your mom on this journey. Stay strong and trust God.

Everybody is different and you should probably get your Drs' okay on any major diet changes before embracing them for your mom. (I am a nurse so any changes in drugs, foods and/or supplements can matter.) What are the priorities for your mom? For me, protein and just getting in calories were very important at first. My Drs pushed Ensure (which I personally hated - taste, my GI did not agree with it and when I read the label - thought for sure that there should be something better). I eventually found a soy drink that I could tolerate and stomach. My issues gave most things a terrible or altered taste. Most things I loved, I hated for months.... What does your Mom love? What goes down easy and settles well? For me, the way back to food/drink was gatorade ( the sugar kind because artificial sweeteners cause visual distortion and migraines), apple sauce, and plain oatmeal. I also had luck with frozen fruit - which makes no sense but worked well for me. Some people love milkshakes, smoothies or one of the many protein drinks. Maybe frequently small drink amts or snacks as opposed to or in addition regular meals might help. Don't know if the eating issues are fallout from her treatments, depression, or something else. There can be meds to stimulate her appetite, but I really try not to add any pills when there are other ways. Nut butter with apples or crackers? Mac and cheese (not for me with my dairy challenges but...) can be a tasty warm comfort food. What about good old chicken noodle soup? I made my own and added more of whatever struck my fancy. I had issues with so many processed foods after my surgery (the spices were too strong or there were chemicals or added ingredients that caused problems), I found the basics - simple, whole foods if possible worked the best. I hope this helps your mom.

If you think talking about food and drink (suggestions) would help, I am game.

I have a different dx than your mom. Every journey is unique and has it's own set of challenges.

I can relate to complete loss of appetite (and/or negative consequences when eating/drinking due to GI issues caused by the Lymphoma / surgery). We all know we have to eat and drink, but when you have zero appetite or you know something unpleasant will happen when you do, it can be difficult. Depression does not help. This journey has taught me that sometimes you have to force yourself to do things to keep your body functioning and possibly get better. Nothing is guaranteed. I have down days and moments when I give up. Those are okay and needed "down" times. You literally just can't live there.

It helped me decide what was important in my life and let go of some things. Pick your battles and choose how you spend your time/energy on things that matter or that you love. I don't know you or your mom, but I hope that sharing this gives you some ideas or topics to open a very heartfelt honest conversation with your mom about what she wants/needs. It can be a hard conversation, but it can also be the beginning of something good.

Hugs,

Thank you so much! Your diet suggestions would help a lot. Appreciated for your support. 💓