Looking for food to soothe your belly and your soul?Try these great recipes:
Good nutrition may help prevent anemia, minimize side effects, and speed recovery from treatments. Sometimes, however, chemotherapy causes side effects that can make eating enough of the right foods difficult. Fatigue, nausea, a sore mouth, and sensitivity to food odors can curtail your enthusiasm for grocery shopping and cooking.
Preparing and storing meals before your treatments begin may help you feel proactive as well as practical. A few extra dishes can make a world of difference on days you need hassle-free food. If you enjoy cooking and wish to make some meals in advance, keep these tips in mind:
- Think comfort food. Choose a dish that soothes your heart as well as your tummy, such as a favorite casserole, pot pie, soup, or stew.
- Spice softly. Go easy with strong and pungent flavors.
Your chili recipe may be just the ticket, but do not make the
four-alarm version. - Boost protein and calories. Use generous amounts of milk, cream, butter, cheese, eggs, gravies, and sauces.
- Parcel out portions. Freeze dishes in meal-sized portions and a few single-serving containers for quick lunches and snacks.
- Go store-bought. Fill the freezer with commercially prepared side dishes, vegetables, and ready-to serve meals.
- Ask an expert. Ask your doctor, your nurse, a registered dietitian, or another cancer survivor to help you plan meals.
