These precautions should be followed for approximately 3 months following discharge or until advised differently by a doctor.

Eating well and food hygiene are important to aid recovery.  If you have any questions or concerns please speak to a dietitian.

All foods should be from a reputable source e.g. hospital kitchen or from a known food manufacturer. 

Ensure foods are stored correctly according to the manufacturers instructions e.g. keep refrigerated, store in an airtight container.

All foods must be consumed by the expiry date or within 24 hours of being opened.  Check that packaging is not damaged.

Small quantities are advisable.

You may drink alcohol in moderation, though this is not advisable during the administration of chemotherapy and with some other drugs

AIM TO GAIN WEIGHT. TRY TO HAVE :-

- Three meals & snacks per day.
- Eat main meal at the time of day when you feel well.
- Keep a stock of easily prepared foods e.g. tinned soups/rice pudding, frozen ready meals, pot
  noodle/rice meals.
- Try to eat foods high in protein, e.g. meat, fish, pulses, at least 3 times a day.
- Use full cream milk.
- Attempt a pudding at least once a day.
- Add tinned cream, pasteurised cheese, butter, milk, custard, and/or sugar to your meals/drinks.
- DO NOT USE LOW CALORIE FOODS OR DRINKS

REMEMBER DO NOT WORRY ABOUT THE CALORIES - EAT AND DRINK WHAT YOU CAN 

Some advice for dealing with loss of appetite:-

- Eat small frequent meals and snacks
- Serve food on a small plate
- Ensure food looks appetising
- Encourage any food you like, even if it's all of one type e.g. puddings

Taste Changes

TOO SALTY - Avoid food with a high salt content, e.g. Bacon, salty snacks, crisps, nuts.  Avoid packet soups and sauces.  Add a pinch of sugar to soup.  Use herbs and spices during cooking.

TOO SWEET - Decrease the sugar content of food.  Add a pinch of salt to drinks and puddings.

METALLIC TASTE - Eat white meat, fish, eggs and cheese.  Avoid tea, coffee and chocolate. If eating red meat soak in wine, soy sauce or fruit juice prior to cooking.

BLANDNESS - use extra flavourings - salt, pickles, mustard, herbs and spices.  use lemon juice and vinegar to re-adjust food taste.