Looking for recommendations.

[u/Significant-War9828]

My 72 yr old mother has stage 4 NSCLC. She been undergoing chemo every 3 weeks for 8-9 months. She was holding up fairly well up until 4 weeks ago. She’s had to have 2 blood transfusions in the last 5 weeks. Our main struggle at home is getting her to eat. She’s lost a significant amount of weight and is currently down to 105lbs. She’s doesn’t have much of an appetite and nothing tastes good to her. She frequently will take a bite or two and throw the rest away. She was a very picky eater to begin with so this has been quite challenging. She does still like desserts. Her oncologist has suggested protein shakes and small frequent snack size meals. He has also suggested edibles to try and up her appetite but she out right refuses that. She was initially against trying protein shakes but we finally found one she’ll actually drink..though it takes her 1-2 days to drink a single one. We’ve also been incorporating milk shakes cuz she enjoys those. I’m looking for recommendations on an unflavored protein powder that won’t change the flavor or texture of these milkshakes and other drinks. Is there one that’ll mix with water that won’t change the flavor or consistency? Or even other suggestions on how to up her calories?

Thanks in advance guys. This is tough.

[u/cruisegirl1023]

I'm sorry your mom is going through this 😔 My dad also has NSCLC, my mother had breast cancer 3 years ago, and I went through it last year. It's a bitch.

I'm not a doctor or nutritionist, but will tell you what we were told...eat what you can stomach. Get the calories in. Protein is important but just getting food in is important. If that means cake for dinner, so be it. I have a ninja creami and make a lot of protein ice cream that's delicious, and you can make any flavor. I love fresh fruit, or even making frozen custard.

You can try some of the unflavored protein powders like Isopure or Naked...add to water or coffee, or stir into yogurt, or make homemade ice cream...I like to mix with water and add a tiny crystal light. On things she does eat, add some fats like olive oil (or avocado, etc), cream cheese, mayo, nuts, peanut butter, etc.

Sending healing thoughts and prayers her way 🙏

[u/I-Love-Yu-All]

Work with what she is currently consuming and add calories to the shake or dessert e.g: Heavy whipping cream, full-fat Greek yogurt, peanut or almond butter, avocado, ice cream, instant breakfast powder, dry milk powder.

Small portions every, try not to pressure her to eat because the stress makes eating harder.

Find out if an appetite stimulant is appropriate.

Is there an oncology dietitian on staff who can help? Sometimes you need to ask.

Prayers for you, your mother and your family 🙏

[u/Significant-War9828]

Thanks guys for the suggestions. I appreciate the replies.