Elevate Your Holiday Table with Health and Cheer! Fa la la la la la…
As we adorn our homes with festive decorations and prepare to gather with our cherished ones, the anticipation of a joyous and bountiful meal is likely part of the celebration plans. For those navigating cancer or supporting a loved one on this journey, it is crucial to approach the holiday feast with mindfulness and intentionality about the foods we choose to eat and serve. Even during the Holidays, individuals with cancer can harness the power of nutrition for their well-being, while family and friends can offer steadfast support by creating a nourishing and welcoming environment. Get creative and make dishes using colorful and tasty vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, and nuts.
Ideas on What to Include in Your Holiday Menu:
Roasted Vegetables: Toss a variety of colorful vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, and bell peppers with olive oil and your favorite herbs. Roast them in the oven until they're tender and caramelized.
Quinoa Salad: Prepare a vibrant quinoa salad with a mix of chopped vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and fresh herbs. Add a citrus vinaigrette for a burst of flavor.
Avocado Deviled eggs: This appetizer is packed with protein and B-vitamins from the eggs, as well as heart-healthy fat and fiber from the avocados. Click here for the Deviled egg recipe.
Stuffed Acorn Squash: Fill halved acorn squash with a mixture of quinoa, cranberries, and pecans. Bake until the squash is tender, and the filling is deliciously savory and sweet.
Cranberry-Orange Relish: Make a fresh cranberry-orange relish with chopped cranberries, oranges, and a touch of honey. This can be a colorful and tangy alternative to traditional cranberry sauce
Brussels Sprouts with Pecans: Sauté Brussels sprouts with garlic and shallots, then toss in toasted pecans for added crunch. Finish with a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Sweet Potato Casserole with a Nutty Topping: Mash sweet potatoes and top them with a mixture of chopped nuts, oats, and a hint of maple syrup. Bake until the topping is golden brown.
Fruit Salad with a Twist: Create a refreshing fruit salad with a twist by adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey. Pomegranate seeds can add a burst of color and flavor.
Herb-crusted turkey breast: This light Thanksgiving recipe is easy to make, and it’s packed with lean protein. Click here for this herb-crusted turkey breast which is great for you because it’s cooked with fresh herbs and roasted without the dark meat. It’s a simple and tasty recipe that’s great if you don’t have a large party that requires the whole bird.
If you are having a holiday meal outside the home, here’s a few things you can do to better prepare yourself for a more pleasant experience.
Eat before you go: While you may have a reduced appetite at the gathering, eating beforehand ensures you won't go hungry or feel weakened if the options are limited.
Pack for your journey: Bring a few small, preferred snacks in your purse or carry bag. Options like nuts, berries, trail mix, or a pre-made protein shake can provide comfort and sustenance.
Adapt to altered taste buds: Cancer treatments often affect the taste of foods. To neutralize flavors, consider adding ingredients like honey or agave nectar, lemon or lime juice to your dishes.
Beware of spoilage: Given the weakened immune system response, avoid foods at risk of spoiling, such as sushi, deviled eggs, and homemade eggnog. Opt for more stable choices like crackers, chips with salsa, nuts, and cookies.
Be kind to yourself: Recognize that your taste preferences may change, and former favorites might taste different. Embrace nutrient-rich options, such as enjoying a warm bowl of soup.
Approaching the holiday season with thoughtful consideration of dietary choices can contribute to the overall well-being of individuals facing cancer. Creating an environment that acknowledges and accommodates these considerations is a powerful way for friends and family to show support during this special time.
References
https://www.aicr.org/news/a-thanksgiving-menu-with-cancer-fighting-ingredients/
https://cccnevada.com/cancer-fighting-recipes-healthy-thanksgiving-feast/
https://www.rockthetreatment.com/enjoying-thanksgiving-dinner-when-you-have-cancer/
https://www.cancersupportcommunity.org/recipe-gallery
https://pancan.org/news/friday-fix-purple-twist-thanksgiving-meal/
https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/herb-roasted-turkey-breast-recipe-1943552
https://www.aicr.org/cancer-prevention/recipes/avocado-deviled-eggs/
