In her book "Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal," Mary Roach discusses the severe effects of radiation treatments on cancer patients, particularly how these treatments can devastate taste receptors. Patients often find themselves in a distressing predicament where their bodies reject food, perceiving it as something unappetizing, akin to cardboard. This experience leads to a significant psychological and physical struggle.

Despite the necessity of consuming food for survival, patients may struggle with a gag reflex that makes swallowing nearly impossible. This disconnect between the mind's need for nourishment and the body's reaction creates a torturous experience for those undergoing treatment, highlighting the profound impact of medical interventions on the everyday aspects of life, such as eating.