Powerful plates

Low appetite? No problem. These nutrient-dense meals from The Low Appetite Cookbook are designed to keep you fuelled

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Eating well when your appetite is low can feel counterintuitive.

Whether it's due to stress, illness, ageing or the growing use of low-appetite medications, smaller portions mean there's less room for nutritional error - and when you're eating less overall, what you choose to eat matters more than ever.

Low appetite isn’t just about weight loss. Over time, under-eating can compromise muscle mass, energy levels and micronutrient intake - all of which are essential for long-term health, resilience and performance. Protein becomes more important. Fibre still matters. And maintaining strength, particularly in midlife and beyond, requires a more strategic approach to food. Low appetite often comes with low motivation, and when eating feels like a chore, complicated recipes and long ingredient lists simply aren't realistic.

That's why these meals are built around minimal, nutrient-dense ingredients and straightforward methods that require very little time in the kitchen. The focus is on practical combinations that deliver maximum nourishment without relying on large portions or elaborate preparation. In The Low Appetite Cookbook, simplicity sits alongside science. These recipes are designed to help you stay well nourished, maintain strength and feel confident that you're meeting your needs, even on the days when eating feels like an effort.

Rice noodle and chicken broth with lemongrass and Thai basil

Serves 2 375 kcal | 27g protein | 5g fibre

This gently spiced broth, with its mix of lean chicken, miso, fresh herbs and citrus, is full of Thai-inspired flavour but still feels clean and light. The veg and rice noodles make it more substantial, so it's a good option when you want something warming that still feels energising. It's also quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days or when your appetite is smaller.