Here are 15 food hacks tailored for cancer patients who aren’t hungry or are dealing with mouth sores:

1. High-Calorie Smoothies

Blend fruits, full-fat yogurt, nut butters, and protein powder into smoothies. These are easy to swallow, can be nutrient-dense, and help with weight maintenance.

2. Cold Foods Over Hot Foods

Serve meals cold or at room temperature. Cold foods like yogurt, cottage cheese, or chilled soups can be less irritating for mouth sores than hot dishes.

3. Popsicles and Smoothie Pops

Make popsicles from fruit juices, coconut water, or blended smoothies. They can soothe sore mouths while providing hydration and nutrients.

4. Soft Scrambled Eggs

Scrambled eggs are soft, easy to chew, and packed with protein. Add cream or cheese for extra calories and texture.

5. Oatmeal or Cream of Wheat

These soft, warm cereals can be gentle on the mouth. Add honey, nut butter, or protein powder to increase the calorie content.

6. Avocado Slices

Rich in healthy fats and smooth in texture, avocados are easy to eat and packed with calories, making them great for patients who struggle to maintain their weight.

7. Coconut Water Ice Cubes

Freeze coconut water into ice cubes and add them to drinks or smoothies to keep hydrated and provide electrolytes.

8. Mashed Potatoes with Extra Butter

Mash potatoes with butter, sour cream, or cream cheese for a soft, calorie-rich meal that’s easy to swallow and customize.

9. Soups with Soft Ingredients

Opt for pureed or cream-based soups. Chicken, sweet potato, and squash soups are filling and gentle on the mouth when blended.

10. No-Chew Protein Snacks

Try high-protein snacks that don’t require chewing, like Greek yogurt, custard, or pudding. These can help maintain protein intake.

11. Nutritional Shakes

Consider liquid meal replacements or protein shakes (such as Ensure or Boost). They’re easy to sip on, and some are designed specifically for people with reduced appetite.

12. Banana or Applesauce Puree

Blend bananas or unsweetened applesauce for a soft, nutritious snack. Both are easy to digest and gentle on the mouth.

13. Creamy Nut Butters

Spread peanut butter or almond butter on soft bread, crackers, or blend them into smoothies for extra calories and protein.

14. Scrambled Tofu or Soft Tofu

If you prefer plant-based protein, soft tofu or scrambled tofu is easy to eat and versatile for mixing with other soft ingredients like mashed vegetables.

15. Cooked Cereal with Ground Flaxseed

Cooked cereals like farina or rice porridge mixed with ground flaxseeds can add nutrients and texture without being difficult to eat.

These food hacks focus on high-calorie, easy-to-swallow, and gentle options that can nourish without causing additional discomfort.