During mesothelioma treatment, most mesothelioma patients may not have the energy to run errands, such as going to the grocery store. If you are a caregiver for a mesothelioma patient undergoing mesothelioma treatment, it is understandable that you may not want to leave your loved home one alone during this time. It may be helpful to stock your pantry and freezer before mesothelioma treatment begins so you can prepare simple meals without needing to leave the house.
This becomes even more important during seasons with harsh weather like snowstorms or downpours when you need to minimize your time on the roads.
Dietitians Recommendations for a Healthy Pantry and Freezer
Recently, registered dietitians at the Cleveland Clinic’s Wellness Institute prepared a list of what to keep in the pantry or freezer to make healthy meals easier to put together. We modified it to make it more user-friendly for mesothelioma patients.
The usual advice of sticking to the outer areas of the supermarket, where the fresh produce and meats are kept, don’t apply here. You’ll find what you need to help tide you over during mesothelioma treatment in the center canned foods and frozen food aisles.
Load your cart with these staples:
Dried or canned beans A great source of protein, fiber and B vitamins, beans are very versatile for cooking. They lend themselves well to soups and stew or can stand alone as a side dish. Canned beans may be easier to digest than cooked dried beans.
Frozen fruits and vegetables Typically flash frozen at peak ripeness; frozen produce keeps all its vitamins and minerals. Choose plain not sauced options.
Vegetable oils These are a necessity for sautéing, roasting and baking as well as for homemade salad dressings and dips. Olive oil, a key component of the Mediterranean Diet, has been shown to be especially healthful but may have too strong a flavor for baking desserts or popping popcorn.
Grains Boxes of different kinds of pasta can give you versatility for many meal options. Spaghetti and linguine can combine with jars of red sauce or a sprinkling of olive oil for a simple meal. Elbow macaroni can be cooked and added to soups or form the basis for a baked casserole. Also keep rice, both regular and minute rice, on hand as well as oatmeal.
Nuts and nut butters Keep walnuts, peanuts, cashews and almonds on hand for a quick snack loaded with nutrients and calories needed for someone undergoing mesothelioma treatment. Nut butters are great with fruits and veggies, not just on sandwiches.
Vegetable broth and chicken broth Versatile items for soups and stews as well as for homemade purees and sauces.
Extras Dried fruits including prunes, popcorn, cocoa, jars of applesauce, canned soups, protein powder