Increasing Calories

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Before, during and after chemotherapy or other medical treatments, eating enough calories can be very important. 

Treatment can increase the body’s energy needs while also reducing appetite, causing nausea, taste changes or making eating feel harder.

Increasing calories can help:

• Build energy reserves before treatment starts

• Reduce the risk of unwanted weight and muscle loss

• Maintain strength, energy and independence

• Support the immune system and healing

• Help the body cope better with treatment side effects

• Improve recovery after treatment or illness

• Support wound healing after surgery

• Help maintain muscle mass, balance and function

When appetite is low, small frequent meals, snacks, smoothies and calorie-dense foods can often feel easier than large meals. Even small amounts can make a big difference over time.