I am in week 8 of my 7 week treatment. 35 sessions of radiation (one each weekday) and 3 rounds of chemo (weeks 1,4,7).  Prior to this I was diagnosed with HPV+ cancer on the base of my tongue and in my right lymph node.  I'm 42 years old, 2 kids, married and count my blessings every day.    Reading through others stories, I am in the worst part of the process right now, and it does feel this way.    My main concern is about taste. I would estimate that I have about 2% of my original taste. My saliva is thick, but not as bad as others have described. Still eating something like bread or a scone makes me gag.    Looking at doctor google, I have seen the following recommendations for taste: 1. Zinc supplements 2. Eating watermelon 3. One of the rad oncologitsts also said that a product called 'miracle berries' can help (estimated 1/3 of people found them helpful). Needless to say, they are on their way.    My speechie is most concerned that I'll lose my swallow function, and has implored me to eat solid food regularly, which I am doing. Today I ate porridge, 2 minute noodles and rice cream.    It is a little ironic for me to be concerned about taste. I had previously commented that the work of a chef is lost on me, and have never watched a cooking program in my life. Now I think about food constantly, and am very fearful that I'll never enjoy food again.    I am keen to hear your tips / stories / advice.  ... View more