Difficulty eating and drinking
Have you noticed that eating or drinking isn’t as easy as it used to be? Perhaps you have a reduced appetite, find eating takes a lot of energy, or struggle to eat or drink enough. Pain, tiredness or other health issues can also affect how and what you eat. Eating and drinking well is important for your health. It provides energy, helps your body recover and supports your day-to-day functioning. If eating or drinking becomes difficult, this can affect your fitness, independence and quality of life.
What do you notice?
Difficulties with eating and drinking can manifest themselves in various ways.
You may, for example, notice that:
- you have a reduced appetite;
- you’ll soon feel full;
- eating takes a lot of energy;
- you forget to eat or drink;
- you have difficulty chewing or swallowing;
- you enjoy your food less;
- you lose weight;
- if you feel weak or tired;
- you drink less than is good for you;
- eating in company is difficult or tiring.
Sometimes you may find that eating becomes more of a chore than something you enjoy. This can affect your energy levels, mood and health.
