Tips for Managing MPN-Related Appetite Loss

Some of the symptoms of myelofibrosis (MF) can have an impact on your appetite or energy level. The stress of living with a rare, chronic blood cancer like MF may also affect your mood. Focusing on your overall health and well-being is an important way you can help manage your MF, including eating right and staying active.

With MF, it’s not uncommon to experience changes in your appetite and level of physical activity that may make it more challenging to maintain your weight. Fatigue from MF may affect your appetite and can decrease your level of physical activity. When you’re less active, you may have less of an appetite. Also, if your spleen is enlarged, you may feel full even if you haven’t eaten much. These may be just some of the reasons why you may experience weight loss.

What you can do to take charge of your health:

1. Ask your Healthcare Professional to refer you to a dietitian or nutritionist who can help you plan a healthy diet and get the nutrition you need
2. Eat healthy foods and a balanced diet whenever you can, including foods from all food groups
3. Try eating healthy snacks every few hours throughout the day
4. Activities like walking or other moderate exercise may help build your appetite. Ask your Healthcare Professional what activities would be right for you

This article is not intended to replace the advice of your Healthcare Professional. Always check with your Healthcare Professional before changing your diet.

As you continue to evaluate your MF, be sure to tell your Healthcare Professional about any new symptoms you may be experiencing—even those you don’t think are related to your MF.

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