Savoring the Season

The holiday season brings cherished recipes and familiar flavors that connect us to our families, culture, and celebrations. For those undergoing cancer treatment at The Brooklyn Cancer Center, navigating holiday meals can feel overwhelming. Between managing side effects like nausea, taste changes, and appetite loss, it might seem easier to skip the festivities altogether. However, with thoughtful planning and creative adaptations, you can still savor your favorite culinary traditions while providing your body with the nutrients it needs.

Foods That Support Your Body During Treatment

Holiday tables naturally offer many foods that provide excellent nutrition: 

• Turkey and ham give you protein that helps your body heal and stay strong. 

• Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins A and C, which support your immune system. 

• Green beans, brussels sprouts, and colorful salads provide fiber and vitamins that support your body's natural recovery process. 

• Cranberry sauce offers vitamin C and antioxidants.

At The Brooklyn Cancer Center, our team suggests building your plate thoughtfully by starting with proteins and vegetables, then adding smaller portions of richer dishes that hold special meaning for you.

Making Your Favorite Dishes Work for You

Your beloved holiday recipes can be adjusted to better accommodate treatment side effects without losing what makes them special. If you have mouth sores or trouble swallowing, make your traditional dishes softer. Choose mashed sweet potatoes instead of roasted chunks. Make soups smooth and creamy. If food tastes metallic, your care team at The Brooklyn Cancer Center might suggest trying plastic utensils and adding extra herbs and spices to brighten flavors. 

Tips for Holiday Meals

Timing your meals around treatment schedules makes a big difference in how you feel. If you receive treatment in the morning, you might feel best if you eat your main holiday meal in the early afternoon before you get tired. It is also essential to stay hydrated by sipping water or herbal tea throughout the day.

Eat smaller portions more often rather than forcing yourself through a traditional large meal. Sometimes, a few bites of something special, enjoyed slowly, bring more satisfaction than struggling through a full plate. And remember, it's okay to save a small portion of your favorite dish for later, when you're feeling better.

The holidays are about connection, tradition, and finding joy in shared moments. By adapting your approach to holiday foods rather than avoiding them, you can fully participate in celebrations while supporting your body's healing process. Listen to what feels right for you each day, be flexible with your plans, and give yourself permission to enjoy the season in whatever way works best for you. If you have questions about nutrition during cancer treatment or need personalized guidance for managing holiday meals, our team at The Brooklyn Cancer Center is here to help.