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I’m through my first chemo and of all the symptoms, the bad taste in my mouth is the worst. Any suggest outside of the recommended remedies?

A MyBCTeam Member asked a question 💭
Humble, TX

Triple positive stage 1 grade 3

February 6
 · 
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A MyBCTeam Member

Using Biotin mouthwash daily helps. Sucking on Lemonhead candies💕

February 6
A MyBCTeam Member

I used the Gin-Gin candies during chemo infusions, it helped mask the metallic taste I would get- and ginger is a natural tummy soother. I kept those candies handy all the time- lol! Later, food started tasting off as well, people suggested plastic utensils, but they just felt so slick in my mouth- my mind just went "greasy" and the stomach would roll. I did better with chopsticks, bamboo utensils- or finger foods! Usually the finger foods, as my stomach did better with snacking vs full size meals! We learn and adapt- and get through this one day at a time! Hugs!

February 6
MyBCTeam

What can help with the bad taste in your mouth after chemotherapy besides the usual remedies?

That metallic or unpleasant taste is such a frustrating side effect, and it's completely understandable that it's bothering you so much. The good news is that many MyBCTeam members have found creative ways to manage it.

Here are Show Full Answer

What can help with the bad taste in your mouth after chemotherapy besides the usual remedies?

That metallic or unpleasant taste is such a frustrating side effect, and it's completely understandable that it's bothering you so much. The good news is that many MyBCTeam members have found creative ways to manage it.

Here are some suggestions that have worked for others:

* Find foods that still taste good to you and stick with them, even if it's the same thing repeatedly. A MyBCTeam member shared they lived on chicken noodle soup, almond milk, and peanut butter on bread during treatment.
* Try cold or room-temperature foods, which may be easier to tolerate than hot meals
* Experiment with strong flavors like peppermint or lemon candies - these can help mask the bad taste and also help with nausea
* Eat your meals when your appetite is strongest, and don't worry about eating "perfectly" right now

The taste changes typically improve within a few months after chemotherapy ends, though it can take up to six months for your sense of taste to fully return to normal.

If the taste is making it hard to eat enough, talk with your oncologist about whether you need nutritional supplements to help maintain your strength during treatment.

February 6

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