How to Get Back Your Appetite Back After a Stroke
A stroke is a medical emergency where blood flow to an area of the brain is lost (either from a clot or a break in the artery), thus cutting off its oxygen supply. The cells die and brain damage sets in, leading to disability. Disability depends on the area of the brain affected, and the person may present with speech or motor impairments. Some people do not eat much after a stroke. If you are taking care of someone who had a stroke, there are ways to help stimulate his appetite.
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Instructions
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Shopping for Food and Preparing Meals
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Ask your loved one what he wants to eat, and get it. Eating your favorite foods is an easy way to stimulate appetite.
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Buy soft foods like such as yogurt, applesauce and pudding. Purchase fruits and vegetables of different colors, such as red strawberries, green broccoli or yellow squash, to make meals visually interesting.
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Create bold flavors--marinate meats with fruit juices or dressing, and use seasoning like basil, pepper and rosemary. Cook food thoroughly, so it is soft to eat.
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Cut food into small pieces to make it easier to chew.
Eating With Your Loved One
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Turn off all distractions, such as TVs, computers and phones.
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Create a calm atmosphere, and do not rush your loved one while eating. Talk about pleasant topics.
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Watch your loved one eat. If she has difficulty chewing or swallowing, she may need to see a speech pathologist. If he has difficulty using the silverware because of weakness, you can buy adaptive eating utensils that make it easier to eat.
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Tips & Warnings
It is not usual for stroke survivors to eat very little. They may be frustrated and angry about not being able to do things that they once were able to do. Depending on the part of the brain affected, they may also not be able to communicate effectively with others. Be patient. Encourage your loved one to do as many things himself as he can, even if it takes extra time.
If your loved one begins to lose weight, you may need to contact your physician for assistance. Malnutrition weakens the immune system, which contributes to infection. In severe cases, a feeding tube may be inserted in the abdomen to prevent further weight loss.
