Snack Ideas for Children Suffering from Cancer
Cancer can be treated much more easily now than at the start of this millennium. But, the side-effects that are a part of various treatments for cancer are still something patients have to suffer from. This is especially worse for children, as the most common side-effects are loss of appetite, a constant feeling of nausea, and prolonged weakness. Not getting the adequate nutrition hampers their growth, which can result in various other issues. To work around this, there are quite a few beneficial ideas for snacks for cancer patients that parents and caretakers can opt for. Given below are a few examples of the same and tips on how to plan snacks for children suffering from cancer.
Tips to keep in mind
Don’t force things
If they are in the hospital, their nutrition requirements are taken care and it is easier to not worry about their meals then. But when they are recovering at home, they may resist eating or drinking. To overcome this, you can involve them in planning the menu. Make food colorful and interesting. Do not force or compel them to eat and if they want a change of setting, allow them to eat in the garden or on the deck. Once they start to improve, slowly introduce other vegetables and fruits they were fussy about earlier. Read to them or distract them with music or cartoon shows so that their focus is not on the food. This habit is recommended only until they regain strength. Encourage them to go out and play rather than watch TV as their health improves.
Be flexible
If the child does not feel hungry, coax them, or try to make a deal. Encourage them to eat a few tablespoons of food every hour or so. If possible, allow them to choose from whatever options are available at home, within limits. This will make them more enthusiastic about eating and make them feel like things are close to being normal once again, which is a huge part of recovery. Stock up your fridge with ingredients that can be used to make snacks beneficial for cancer patients and consult the doctor regarding this. Make sure to avoid an excessive amount of sugar and unhealthy fats as these can lead to them feeling bloated and lethargic. Restrict packaged and processed food and give them as much fresh and homemade food as possible.
Snack ideas for children suffering from cancer
- During and after radiation or chemotherapy you can give them cold food like ice cream, milkshakes, or yogurt
- Pancakes
- Cheese toast and sandwiches made using homemade jelly
- Soft fruits like banana, applesauce, and melons are full of vitamins and easy to eat
- Pasta is favored by most kids and contains the required carbs and protein. They can eat small portions initially and gradually increase the portion sizes
- Puddings and Jell-O are recommended by doctors and are ideal snacks for in-between meals
- Ground meat in small quantities as it is a great source of protein. You can make them in batches, freeze them, and grill when required so that there is no added fat
- Avoid store-bought patties for children as food additives can lead to symptoms worsening
- Boiled vegetables and stewed fruits with brown sugar are also ideal snacks for kids
Other beneficial, easy snacks for cancer patients
