Kankerspecialisten schrijven kookprogramma’s voor als ‘medicijn’: Zien eten doet eten, want te veel patiënten beginnen ondervoed aan de behandeling

The oncology team at Ghent University Hospital (UZ Gent) is prescribing cooking shows as part of cancer treatment to combat malnutrition among patients, stating that watching food on television can stimulate appetite and improve nutritional intake during therapy.

According to the hospital’s oncological medical team, enough and proper nutrition is critically important for cancer patients, and watching cooking programs such as Njam! helps awaken the desire to eat.

The initiative addresses a growing concern: many patients begin treatment already undernourished, which can weaken their ability to tolerate chemotherapy and other interventions.

UZ Gent’s oncology dietitians have implemented early nutritional screening at the time of diagnosis, before treatment starts, to identify and prevent malnutrition or extreme diets influenced by misinformation on social media.

Diëtist Stefanie Mortier explained that early intervention helps avoid harmful dietary trends patients encounter online, such as sugar-free or other restrictive diets, which can lead to dangerous weight loss.

By providing immediate, evidence-based nutritional advice after screening, the dietetics team supports patients in maintaining their weight and strength, increasing the likelihood that treatment will be effective.

The hospital notes that eating difficulties are common among cancer patients due to the disease itself—such as tumors in the digestive tract—or side effects of treatment, including nausea, mouth inflammation, and altered taste.

Despite these challenges, maintaining adequate nutrient intake is essential for the body to withstand treatment, and specialized dietitians play a key role in supporting patients throughout their therapy.

Previously, nutritional screening at UZ Gent occurred only after referral by a doctor or nurse, but the team found that delays led to lost time as patients sought unverified advice online.

Now, by starting screening and advice at diagnosis, the oncodiëtisten team aims to counteract misinformation early and promote healthy eating habits from the outset of care.