Caregivers need good nutrition too!

Caregivers need good nutrition too!

Just as individuals with cancer need good nutrition, so do caregivers.

Caregivers are extremely busy—so busy at times that the essentials (proper nutrition and rest) often get put on the back burner.

Although it is normal for caregivers to put many of their needs aside while giving care, neglecting their own needs for a long time is not good for their health.

The everyday stress of life can wreak havoc on the body. Add the stress associated with care-giving and it can generate an unnecessary multitude of health concerns.

Only when caregivers first help themselves can they effectively help others. Caring for themselves is one of the most important things caregivers do. When their needs are met, the person they care for will benefit, too.

Many caregivers are forced into the role, completely unprepared for its physical demands and emotional
hardships. Many often feel overwhelmed and don’t take the time to eat right. The best way for caregivers to
increase their strength and energy levels for busy days is through healthy, balanced nutrition. Just as gas is to an engine, food is to the body. Without the best fuel, life becomes unpredictable.

Helping your caregiver to eat a healthy, balanced diet can make a big difference and the benefits are worth the effort. The better they eat and take care of themselves, the better care they provide. Don’t let their nutrition suffer—encourage your caregiver to follow these basic nutrition tips:

• Eat right. Well-nourished bodies are better prepared to cope with stress and get through busy days. Eating nutritious meals at regular times throughout the day helps keep energy up and the mind clear.
• Take time for breakfast. The body needs fuel and the right balance of nutrients to begin a busy day. For those on a time constraint, breakfast can be simple and does not have to be a cooked meal.  Encourage your caregiver to try a bowl of whole grain or bran cereal with sliced banana or a bowl of 1-minute oats topped with a dab of honey and cinnamon, dried cranberries and sliced almonds. A small serving of orange juice also provides a great boost, along with the main meal.
• Choose healthy snacks. Small snacks between meals are an easy and quick way to keep up energy levels. A piece of fresh fruit, cheese and crackers, or a handful of nuts can go a long way to keep up with an action packed day.
• Focus on hydration. Drinking water throughout the day is a critical part of keeping the body nourished and energized. For an added burst of light and refreshing flavor, encourage your caregiver to try adding a few slices of orange, lemon, or cucumber to their water.
• Cook by the batch. Leftovers can be saved to have for another lunch or dinner during the week.
• Ask for help. Encourage your caregiver to ask for help with meals from family and friends. By setting up a dinner drop off a couple times a month, it can ease their schedule and provide a much needed break.

A caregiver who takes time to eat nourishing meals throughout the day is better prepared to manage the demands of their dedicated role. Good nutrition habits are tough to maintain, but is especially difficult for a caregiver.

Emphasize the importance of self-care to your caregiver and encourage healthy nutrition. They have the right to take good care of themselves even while giving care.


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Anna Zufall, MMSc, RD, CD, CSO

Anna a Registered Dietitian and is Board Certified as a Specialist in Oncology (CSO) Nutrition. Drawing upon her 15 years of  experience, she provides clinical support for TherapEase Cuisine. Anna is one of less than 600 Oncology Certified Dietitians across the
nation helping patients with cancer.
Learn more at www.therapeasecuisine.com
Online Nutritional Support for Cancer Patients and Survivors

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