The person only wants sweets and eats too much. How can I balance this?

My husband has started only wanting cakes, chocolates, and sweet things, and sometimes he eats until he can't fit any more in. He refuses proper food and is gaining weight. How can I balance this without constantly arguing?

It's exhausting to see eating habits turn upside down and feel like you're always saying "no". It's not gluttony or stubbornness: there are neurological reasons behind this change.

Why it happens

Dementia, especially frontotemporal dementia, can alter the appetite and satiety centres. The taste for sweet things often remains when other tastes fade, so sweet food becomes particularly appealing. The person may also forget they have already eaten and ask for more.

Practical strategies

• Keep healthier, naturally sweet alternatives in sight: ripe fruit, yoghurt, jelly, banana smoothie.
• Store sweets out of reach and out of sight; what isn't seen is asked for less.
• Offer a small portion of a sweet treat after the main meal, as a natural reward.
• Maintain regular mealtimes to reduce constant snacking.
• Serve controlled portions instead of leaving out the whole packet.

What NOT to do

• Do not argue or shame the person for eating sweets.
• Do not impose an absolute ban; frustration increases insistence.
• Do not leave packets and boxes accessible.

When to seek professional help

If there is diabetes, significant weight gain, or a sudden change in eating behaviour, talk to your GP or seek nutritional support. You can also get guidance from NHS 111.

"I stopped having chocolates in sight and started giving him fruit and yoghurt when he asked for something sweet. He's still got a sweet tooth, but he no longer eats secretly until he feels unwell." — Anonymous Carer