Some Common Physical Responses to Chemotherapy...

Bodily responses to chemotherapy are as varied as the incredible men, women and children undergoing the therapy. My mother had strong responses to her treatment, including a powerful taste aversion to chemicals. A coworker of hers rarely felt nauseated. The National Cancer Institute lists some of the more common physical responses to chemotherapy.

• loss of appetite


• changes in weight (either losing or gaining weight)


• sore mouth or throat


• dry mouth


• dental and gum problems


• changes in sense of taste or smell


• nausea/vomiting


• diarrhea


• lactose intolerance


• constipation


• fatigue and/or depression

Cooking in your kitchen will vary depending on an individual's response to his or her treatment. Because cooking for someone who is experiencing diarrhea will be different from cooking for someone who is experiencing constipation, the National Cancer Institute also offers some advice for addressing each of the specific responses to treatment. Have patience with yourself and those around you as you try to navigate your way through this unfamiliar territory.