As your loved one enters the final stages of their life, their nutritional needs will change. This article aims to provide insights into understanding the reduced calorie needs during this crucial time. It’s important to know that these changes are a natural part of the body’s process as it prepares for the end-of-life journey.
Estimated Calories Needed Per Day Over the Last Six Months
As a person approaches the end of life, their body undergoes a natural process of slowing down and conserving energy. This means that their calorie requirements also decrease over time. This is not a sign of starvation or distress. It is simply the body’s way of adapting to the dying process. They may lose their appetite or thirst completely. Forcing them to eat more will not prolong or improve their quality of life. On the contrary, it may cause them discomfort or harm, such as nausea or aspiration. Here is an estimate of how much calories they may need in each month before they die:
They may need about 80-90% of their usual calorie intake in the first month.
In the second month, they may need about 70-80% of their usual calorie intake.
In the third month, they may need about 60-70% of their usual calorie intake.
In the fourth month, they may need about 50-60% of their usual calorie intake.
In the fifth month, they may need about 40-50% of their usual calorie intake.
In the sixth month, they may need 30-40% of their usual calorie intake.
Estimated Daily Calories Based on Estimated Time Left
Estimated Time Left
Estimated Calories Needed per Day
Less than Six Months
1,200 to 1,500 calories per day
Less than Three Months
1,000 to 1,200 calories per day
Less than One Month
800 to 1,000 calories per day
Less than Two Weeks
600 to 800 calories per day
Last Week of Life
Energy needs are minimal
Estimated Calories Needed Per Day Based on Awake Time
Another factor that affects how much food your loved one needs is how long they are awake during the day. When someone is extremely sick and close to dying, they may sleep increasingly more. This is because their body is resting and preparing for the final transition. This is normal and not something to worry about. They may not want to eat or drink much when they are awake. This is also normal and part of the dying process. They may only need a few bites or sips to keep them comfortable. Here is how much food they may need based on how long they are awake:
If awake for 8 to 12 hours a day, they may need about half or a little more of the food they usually ate when they were healthy.
If awake for 6 to 10 hours a day, they may need about 40-50% of the food they usually eat.
If awake for 4 to 6 hours a day, they may need about 30-40% of the food they usually eat.
If awake for 1 to 2 hours a day, they may need about 20-30% of the food they usually eat.
Hours Awake
Estimated Calories Needed Per Day
8 to 12 hours per day
1,000 to 1,200 calories per day
6 to 10 hours per day
800 to 1,000 calories per day
4 to 6 hours per day
600 to 800 calories per day
1 to 2 hours per day
Energy needs are minimal
Estimated Calories Needed Per Day Based on Activity Level
Another factor affecting how much food your loved one needs is their daily activity. When someone is extremely sick and close to dying, they may not be able to move around much. This is because their body is weak and tired. This is normal and not something to be ashamed of. They may not need as much food as before because their body uses less energy. Trying to make them eat more will not make them stronger or happier. It may only cause them pain or trouble. Here is how much food they may need based on how active they are:
If they can walk around the house a little bit, they may need about 10-15% of the food they usually ate when they were healthy.
If they can only move from the bed to the chair and back, they may need about 5-10% of the food they usually eat.
If they cannot get out of bed, they may need only 1-5% of the food they usually eat.
Activity Level
Estimated Calories per Day
Walking around the house
About 600 to 800 calories
Living a chair-to-bed existence
About 400 to 600 calories
Totally bedbound
About 200 to 400 calories
How the Brain Prepares the Body for Death
When someone is dying, their brain is working hard to help them let go of life. The brain sends signals to the body to slow down and conserve energy. The brain also reduces the production of hormones that make us hungry and thirsty. This is because the body does not need as much food and water as before. This is not a sign of suffering or neglect. It is a sign of the body’s natural wisdom and adaptation. Your loved one may not have the same appetite or thirst as a healthy person. They may only need a few bites or sips to keep them comfortable. This is normal and part of the dying process. It helps them to be more peaceful and relaxed as they get closer to death.
Supporting Changes in Appetite
When someone is extremely sick and close to dying, they may not want to eat as much as before. This can be hard to accept, but it is normal and part of the dying process. They may not need as much food as before because their body is slowing down and preparing for the final transition. Trying to make them eat more will not help them live longer or feel better. It may only cause them discomfort or trouble. Instead, there are ways to make them feel more comfortable and loved:
Offer small, nutrient-dense meals: Give them small portions of food rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. This can help them get the nutrients without feeling too full or bloated. You can also offer them their favorite foods or foods that are easy to swallow and digest.
Focus on hydration: Make sure they drink enough water or other fluids to stay hydrated. You can offer them sips of water, juice, milk, tea, or soup throughout the day. You can also use a moist sponge or cloth to wet their lips and mouth if they cannot drink.
Respect preferences: Listen to what they want and do not want to eat or drink. Please do not force them to eat or drink something they do not like or are not in the mood for. Respect their choices and preferences. They know their body best and what makes them comfortable.
Create a calm environment: Make mealtimes a relaxing and pleasant experience. Play soft music, light candles, or use aromatherapy to create a soothing atmosphere. Remove any distractions or noises that may bother them or make them lose their appetite.
Engage in gentle conversation: Talk to them gently and lovingly during meals. You can share positive memories, express gratitude, or tell them how much you care for them. You can also ask them how they are feeling or what they need. Avoid discussing stressful or upsetting topics that may make them anxious or depressed.
Conclusion
Understanding the reduced calorie needs as your loved one approaches the end of life is crucial for providing compassionate and effective care. These changes are a natural part of the body’s process and require empathy, support, and adjustment in their care routine.
