Supportive nutrition for palliative care

What is the aim of supportive nutrition in palliative care?

The most important aim is to maximise or improve quality of life through comfort, symptom relief and enjoyment of food and drink. The nutritional value of food and drink or whether it is ‘healthy’ is not the most important factor at this stage. It is unlikely that nutrition can make a difference to length of life and some degree weight loss is common.

Nutritional supplements are unlikely to bring any additional benefit at this time, other than comfort, so should only be considered if the person requests them or a healthcare professional feels they will be of benefit.

How can carers or loved ones help?

Loss of interest in food can be difficult to come to terms with and can cause upset or worry. Providing food and drink for our loved ones is a big part of showing we care for them. Family and friends often want to continue doing this and worry that the person they are caring for might be hungry or thirsty.

Family and friends can support with providing favourite food and drinks if and when they want them.

It’s important that the person does not feel pressured into eating and drinking as they ‘normally’ would. For example it’s fine to have ice cream for breakfast if that’s what they fancy.

Food and drinks should be offered on a ‘little and often’ basis so that they don’t feel overwhelmed by large portions.

If someone does not feel like eating then nourishing drinks, such as milky drinks or juices, can be offered which will often require less effort.

Offer to assist the person to eat or drink if they are unable to do so themselves.

Offer mouth care – wetting their lips or applying a lip salve or mouth-moistening spray if available.

How can we help?

Contact your Dorothy House professional if you have any further questions or concerns.