Tips on Managing Loss of Appetite Geriatrics Losing the desire to eat is common when you are unwell. Forcing yourself to eat may only make you feel worse. Some ways to help improve your appetite include: ☐ Make sure you are relaxed and seated comfortably during meal time. ☐ Take your medication as ordered by your doctor for pain or nausea/vomiting. ☐ Ensure regular mouth care and oral hygiene.
☐ Try new food to add variety to your meal. ☐ Try eating a little, even if you are not hungry. ☐ Choose foods that are high in calories. ☐ Consider adding seasoning or spices to enhance the taste of your food. ☐ Use appropriate-sized plates and bowls when serving meals.
☐ Eat with family or friends, or watch television while eating.
☐ Pay attention to the way food is presented to help stimulate appetite.
☐ Take smaller and more frequent meals. Eat five to six small meals a day instead of three big meals.
☐ While it is important to ensure sufficient water intake every day, do not fill yourself up with water during meal time.
If your appetite remains poor despite trying the above, inform your doctor who may prescribe medicine to help with appetite. If you have any questions or concerns about your appetite or food choices, speak to your doctor or nurse.
Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities in the north of Singapore, under the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
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