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Appetite and taste changes
Treatment can make food taste metallic, bland or 'off', and can make you not hungry.
When it happens
It often improves weeks after treatment ends.
What helps at home
- Eat small amounts every 2–3 hours instead of 3 big meals.
- Try plastic utensils if food tastes like metal.
- Marinades, herbs and lemon (if your mouth isn't sore) can add flavor.
- Keep easy, high-protein snacks ready: yogurt, eggs, nut butter, shakes.
- Ask to see a dietitian at your cancer center.
Call your care team now if you have:
- You're losing weight without trying
- You can't eat or drink for a day
Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain or signs of stroke.
Drugs on this site linked to appetite & taste
Find support
- CancerCare: Free counseling, support groups and financial help
- Cancer Support Community: Support groups, a helpline and the MyLifeLine online community
- Imerman Angels: Free one-on-one matching with a survivor or caregiver mentor
- American Cancer Society: 24/7 helpline (1-800-227-2345), rides to treatment, lodging and information
Common questions
What can I eat when everything tastes bad?
Cold or room-temperature foods, tart flavors and plastic utensils help some people. See our food guide.
Written by the Cancer Side Effects Guide team from FDA labels and leading cancer centers. Not medical advice. · Last updated: October 15, 2026 · How we write
Not medical advice. This page is general information to help you talk with your care team. It can't replace advice from your doctor or nurse. If you have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher during treatment, or any symptom that worries you, call your care team now. In an emergency, call 911.