How to Enrich Meals When the Person Eats Very Little?

My mother eats very little at each meal, just a few spoonfuls and then says she's had enough. I'm worried she's not getting what she needs. How can I make the little she eats as nutritious as possible?

When every meal is a small victory, concern about nutrition is constant and legitimate. The good news is that you don't need her to eat a lot: you can make the little she does eat richer.

Why it happens

Appetite reduces for many reasons in dementia: less activity, changes in taste, early satiety, tiredness during meals, or difficulty chewing. Insisting on quantity rarely works; enriching quality does.

Practical strategies

• Add olive oil, butter, cream, or grated cheese to soups, purees, and dishes.
• Enrich milk with milk powder and use it in porridges, smoothies, and desserts.
• Add egg, tuna, shredded chicken, or legumes to boost protein.
• Offer homemade high-calorie smoothies (banana, milk, oats, honey) between meals.
• Concentrate richer food at the time of day when the person eats best.

What NOT to do

• Do not fill the plate; the sight of too much food can suppress appetite.
• Do not replace meals solely with sugary liquids that lack nutritional value.
• Do not force spoonfuls.

When to seek professional help

If intake is very low, there is weight loss, or signs of dehydration, speak to your GP and ask for nutritional support. NHS 111 can provide guidance if you have doubts.

"I learned to put a spoon of olive oil and cheese in her soup. She eats the same amount, but now I know it's proper food." — Anonymous carer