Yes, leukemia and its treatments can definitely cause weight changes — and it goes both ways. Some people experience weight loss, while others may struggle with weight gain depending on their situation.
Unintended Weight Loss is very common. Many MyLeukemiaTeam members have shared experiences like losing significant weight Show Full Answer
Yes, leukemia and its treatments can definitely cause weight changes — and it goes both ways. Some people experience weight loss, while others may struggle with weight gain depending on their situation.
Unintended Weight Loss is very common. Many MyLeukemiaTeam members have shared experiences like losing significant weight before or after diagnosis, often due to a reduced appetite. As one MyLeukemiaTeam member shared, "I have done nothing but lose weight since before I was diagnosed. I have to make myself eat." Treatment side effects can make maintaining a healthy weight even harder. Common culprits include:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhea
- Mouth sores
- Taste changes
To help manage weight during treatment, consider these approaches:
- Eating small, frequent snacks rather than large meals
- Choosing nutrient-dense foods like nuts, avocados, beans, chicken, and fish
- Making smoothies or soups to sneak in extra nutrition
- Staying as physically active as possible to support appetite On the flip side, carrying excess body weight can also affect leukemia outcomes. Fatty tissue may reduce how well chemotherapy works by breaking down the drug's active chemicals, making treatment less effective.
It's always a good idea to speak with your oncologist or a registered dietitian about managing your weight during treatment — they can tailor advice specifically to your situation.
May 4
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