Proper nutrition is an important part of the healing process. By maintaining your weight and eating a balanced diet, you help your body repair damaged tissue and withstand other side effects.

While you may need extra protein and calories at this time, radiation therapy can cause a loss of appetite and “early satiety,” a feeling of being too full too fast. The following are some ways to reawaken your appetite so you get proper nutrition:
 

• Eat small, frequent meals at regular times. Plan your meals so that you eat at the time of day when you feel the best.
   

• Keep nutritious snacks available. Bedtime is usually a good time for a snack, since breakfast is many hours away.
   

• Try to stay away from the area where food is prepared to avoid early satiety. The smell of cooking food can increase nausea or create a sense of fullness before you eat any food.
   

• Take a walk in the fresh air to awaken a suppressed appetite. Create a pleasant eating atmosphere with candles and soft music or watch television while you eat.