Well-nourished people often tolerate treatment better. They also feel better physically and emotionally. The reasons some people lose weight during treatment are not well understood. The simplest explanation is that when people feel sick they often lose their appetites and just don't feel like eating. Or, they may be too tired to cook for themselves.
Some treatments also can cause people to feel nauseated.
It is obviously very difficult to want to eat during those times. Nutritional services can be an important part of your entire treatment program. A consultation with a registered dietitian early in your treatment can provide valuable information in planning a good nutritional program and avoiding future problems. Prevention is the answer if you are concerned about nutritional problems. The information provided through OncoLink should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease.