ARTICLES / General /
Nutrition Tips: Decreased Appetite /
Other Articles
Share This Article
Nutrition Tips: Decreased Appetite
Offer high caloric drink foods such
as ice cream, milk shakes, or eggnog. Offer familiar
foods. Favorite foods can stimulate the appetite. Try
making the main meal of the day at lunch when the
appetite is larger. Sit directly in front of the person
and show each spoonful to help them orient.
Swallowing Problems
Allow time between bites and check mouth periodically
for food in the cheek. You may need to remind the person
to swallow. Gently stroking the throat will help to
stimulate swallowing. Observe what food textures cause
the most difficulty. Liquids can be thickened with
gelatin or applesauce. Solids can be moistened or pureed
for easier swallowing.
Digestive Upset
Keep a food diary to enhance nutrition dialogue with the
person’s doctor. Include what foods they have problems
or complications digesting and record their daily food
menus. Review it with their doctor or dietician for
feedback. They may be experiencing digestive problems or
irritable bowl syndrome due to their menu.
Motivational Problems
Presentation is key so serve appetizing looking meals by
accenting plates with a garnish (i.e. strawberry,
coconut flakes or melon). Make the dining experience
pleasant for the person you are caring for by playing
soft music, lighting candles or talking to them about
the day’s events while they are eating to take their
minds off not feeling well.
Printable Version
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
