Weight loss and reduced appetite towards the end of life

• Speak to your doctor, nurse or dietitian about weight loss and how they can help.
• It’s fine to eat and drink what you feel like, even if that’s only small amounts.
• If you feel sick or very full, have a break and try to eat some more an hour or so later.
• Try having small meals or snacks. You may find soft food such as soup, yoghurt or ice cream easier to eat.
• You should keep taking pancreatic enzymes while you are eating, but you can reduce the amount you take if you are eating less.
• It is important that you speak to your doctor or nurse for help with any problems that are stopping you eating, such as pain or sickness.
• Gentle physical activity can help to increase your appetite and help you maintain your strength and fitness.

Your doctor or nurse can refer you to a dietitian for help with eating. They may suggest changes to your diet or nutritional supplements, which are drinks or powders. These help to increase the amount of energy (calories) and protein in your diet. This can help you to feel better, and have more energy.

It can be difficult if your family member doesn’t feel like eating and is losing weight. But remember that this is normal. Don’t try to make them eat if they don’t want to. Support them by asking what they fancy and preparing food for them. And try not to be upset if they don’t eat much of it. Try to keep having meals together as a family, as the social part of eating together can help.