Oncologists at University Hospital Ghent are prescribing cooking shows as part of cancer treatment, saying watching food programs can help stimulate patients’ appetites during therapy.
The medical team recommends that cancer patients watch programs like Njam! and other culinary shows as often as possible to counteract malnutrition that often begins at the start of treatment.
“Enough and good nutrition is incredibly vital. And this kind of television whets the appetite,” officials from the oncology department stated.
The approach addresses a common challenge where many patients begin treatment already undernourished, which can complicate recovery and reduce tolerance to chemotherapy and other medications.
Health experts note that maintaining proper nutrition during cancer treatment supports strength, immune function, and overall treatment outcomes, making appetite stimulation a valuable supportive care strategy.
