What is a Healthy Appetite?
A healthy appetite is important to give your body the nutrients it needs to function. The energy your body needs to maintain good health comes from what you eat.35
A healthy appetite requires a balanced diet. As part of your diet, you should include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, dairy, meats and beans, and a certain limited amount of fats. For more information on a balanced diet, visit www.mypyramid.gov.
An increased appetite will help your body get the nutrients it needs to function and helps prevent unintended weight loss. Try these tips for increasing your appetite:35
• Keep a weight diary by recording your weight on a weekly basis.
• Allow enough time to finish eating a meal.
• If filling up quickly is a problem, eat 5 or 6 small meals a day.
• Keep a supply of high-calorie snack foods, such as crackers with cheese or peanut butter.
• Prepare food with differing textures and of varying temperatures to make meals more appetizing.
• Enjoy meals in a pleasant environment. Eat with friends or family members when possible.
• Include favorite foods or ethnic dishes often.
• Keep easy-to-prepare foods on hand for quick meals.
• Increase your physical activity; try walking or gardening.
• Talk with your doctor about medications that can help appetite, such as Megace ES.
Keeping a journal of what you eat and when can help you and your healthcare provider track your progress. The downloadable Food Diary will help you track appointments, food intake, and medication intake. You can also record how you feel during the day to help your healthcare provider understand your progress at your next appointment.
