For many people, nutrition is a science that guides individuals in making healthy food choices. However, for someone facing a life-limiting diagnosis, nutrition may come to mean more than just making food choices to improve or maintain health. Many people find a lot of enjoyment in eating. However, an individual facing a life-limiting diagnosis may experience changes to their body that prevent them from enjoying food the way they once did. Given that it is still important to maintain a relationship with food, those facing a life-limiting diagnosis may benefit from redefining the way they think about food.
Simple Ways to
Make Meals Enjoyable
Food is much more than a way to stay nourished or healthy. For some, the preparation of food is a type of meditative process. Putting on music and slowly working through a recipe is a great way to connect with food in a new way, one that prioritizes the journey of preparation rather than the outcome of eating. For many individuals, cooking slowly and intentionally is a way to de-stress and can be an excellent tool to help cope with the difficult feelings that come with receiving a life-limiting diagnosis. In this way, preparing food can be a source of comfort and relaxation. As well, coming together with loved ones to prepare a meal is a great way to spend quality time together. When everyone takes responsibility for a different portion of a recipe, preparing a meal becomes a team effort and can be a wonderful way for loved ones to spend time together. Finally, nutrition can also be thought of through the lens of giving. Preparing a meal can be a way of showing love to both ourselves and those around us. An individual who prepares a meal with themselves in mind is prioritizing their wellbeing. As well, an individual who prepares a meal with others in mind can bring great happiness to those around them. While not directly related to the science of nutrition, practicing both self-love and love for others through food preparation are additional ways in which nutrition can be used to improve quality of life.
Source info: Saskatchewan Health Authority
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