Cancer and its treatment are strenuous on the body since treatments also affect the healthy cells. Unhealthy foods that might worsen the condition should be avoided at all costs for a fast recovery. A diet for cancer patients should include protein-rich food like meat, chicken, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, cheese, and milk. Colorful veggies are also an important part of a healthy diet, and sugar, caffeine, and salt intake should be limited.
Here are 8 snack options for cancer patients, some of which can also be prepared beforehand and stored, while some can be whipped up in a few minutes:
1. Quesadillas with mashed black beans
This easy-to-make dish is a perfect snack for cancer patients. It takes less than half an hour to make these yummy quesadillas, and corn kernels, diced onions, chopped avocados, jalapenos, and olives can also be added to make them healthier and tastier.
2. Chocolate peanut butter balls
Weight loss is a common side effect of cancer treatment like chemotherapy, and protein powder can help patients maintain a healthy weight. Chocolate peanut butter balls are a great way to add the requisite proteins to the diet while also satisfying the sweet tooth.
3. Hummus dip
Chickpeas are a great source of fiber, which is why hummus makes a healthy and tasty snack for cancer patients. It can be paired with homemade carrot or avocado chips.
4. Muesli with full-fat milk
Muesli is another great option to add to the list of evening snacks for cancer patients. It can be had with cold or hot full-fat milk, and some fruits can also be added, along with nuts to garnish it.
5. Trail mix
This only needs the patient’s favorite snacks and flavors, dried fruits, mini-crackers, pretzels, assorted seeds, nuts, and fibrous cereals. Additionally, some chocolate chips can be added to satisfy their sweet tooth.
6. Eggplant and roasted red pepper
This is an exciting appetizer made with bell peppers, eggplant, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil, and it can be had with a healthy dip.
7. Cheese tortilla and spinach pizza
Spinach and cheese on a tortilla baked to perfection provides the necessary proteins, fiber, and dairy in a snack suitable for cancer patients.
8. Roasted edamame
Green soybeans or edamame are power-packed foods with cancer-fighting properties, and they are also rich in fiber, low in fats, and loaded with proteins. Spices like dried basil, chili powder, and onion powder can also be added for a punch, along with some olive oil for the healthy fats.
9. Other snack options for cancer patients
- Baked beans on toast with grated cheese
- Orange juice with scrambled eggs or poached eggs on toast
- Fruits
- Dried fruits and nuts
- Lasagna
- Quiche
- Yogurt
- Banana smoothie
- Milkshakes
- Tuna on buttered toast with tomato slices
- Cheese and ham omelet
- Cheese and peanut butter toast with yogurt and banana
- Peas and carrots with grilled lamb cutlets and mashed potatoes
- Pasta with cheese made with pesto sauce
