People often worry about losing a lot of weight, losing their appetite and feeling pressured to eat more than they can manage. If you have lost weight you may also worry about how you look. And low mood can also mean you don’t want to eat as much.
Finding ways to manage your diet and digestion problems can help you feel more in control. If you are struggling, speak to your dietitian, doctor or nurse. They can provide emotional support as well as medical care.
Your family and friends can be a huge support. Try talking to them about how the cancer has affected your digestion, and how this has made you feel. Let them know what can help. For example, some people with pancreatic cancer need smaller meals and more snacks. Others find that the smell of food makes them feel sick, so it helps if someone else cooks.
It may help to speak to others in a similar situation. We can help you connect and share your experience with others. We also have stories from people affected by pancreatic cancer on our website. No one understands the experience of pancreatic cancer quite like this community.
You can also speak to our specialist nurses on our free Support Line with any questions about managing your diet. They can also provide emotional support.
We have more information about dealing with the emotional impact of pancreatic cancer in our leaflet, What now? How to look after yourself and get support through pancreatic cancer.
Updated March 2025
Review date March 2028
