Reduce your risk of cancer... Feed yourself!
Are you living with cancer and want to take your food from blah to BBBAAAMMM!?
Let’s talk lunch! Most people have the time and energy for something quick and simple, like a sandwich. This can be a great option, but if yours is made from bread + sliced meat + … not much else, you probably are not getting the biggest bang for your buck if we are talking health and vitality, not to mention, it isn’t very inspiring. Food should always be enjoyed! I am going to give you a few quick tips to amp up that boring mid-day sandwich so that you are so excited to eat it and feel great doing it!
1. Try a plant protein filling: Protein is the building blocks of all the structures in our body and helps maintain our muscles mass. Ultimately, this keeps our immune system strong. Plant proteins, such as chickpeas or white beans, supply our bodies with protein AND antioxidants that protect our cells from damage. Two for the price of one!
2. Add a source of fat: If you are living with cancer, your metabolism is likely running on over drive. It takes more fuel (AKA calories) to maintain the healthy parts of you and keep your immune system up. Fat packs a punch with calories and can keep you feeling strong and energized. Try adding in avocado, oils, mayo, or cheese for example.
3. More plants: Plant foods (like vegetables & fruits) supply our bodies with antioxidants and phytonutrients – special little chemicals that help protect the body. The wider the variety of plants and colours, the better. We really do want to eat the rainbow! Try adding some dark leafy greens (ex: spinach), tomato slices, diced red onion, or shredded carrot.
One of our fav lunches is smashed chickpeas and avocado, mixed with diced celery, red onion and bell pepper. Stir in some mayo, S&P and lemon juice. Serve in a wrap or with your favourite bread topped with leafy greens and tomato slices. So yum and so easy!
For more great recipes and nutrition insight, please connect with me friend Katie www.thenutritionroom.com
She works specifically with cancer patients and is a wealth of knowledge. She also rocks a kind spirit!
Katie Keller RD
Registered Dietitian and Online Nutritionist
Co-Owner
Specialties: Intuitive and mindful eating, emotional eating, digestive issues, cancer prevention and survivorship.
Katie likes to keep things simple. When working with Katie you can expect a relaxed environment where you receive suggestions that are easy to follow in your everyday life. Katie is passionate about educating her clients about healthy foods that optimize their health and vitality, and feels strongly that we do not need to sacrifice flavour for health.
She prides herself on her compassionate and empathetic approach, and believes in a collaborative model to help her clients achieve their goals. Katie creates a warm and supportive environment while utilizing behaviour change techniques to ensure her clients feel supported and empowered when healing their relationship with food. She advocates for food freedom, body acceptance and self-love to build happiness and create a sustainable lifestyle. She uses a realistic lens when working with her clients. Katie understands that sometimes life throws curve balls and never expects perfection in a client’s journey whether it’s creating peace with food, optimizing health for cancer prevention, or managing digestive issues.
In her free time, Katie loves to jog and bike outdoors. She’s addicted to reading fiction books, and is an avid baker (if you are looking for a tasty and unique cookie recipe, she is your gal). Not to mention, she is a social butterfly and is always looking for an excuse to spend time (and eat, obviously) with friends and family. Creating a lifestyle to feel good in your own skin is one of her core values, and she is passionate about helping the world take food less seriously. Check out The Nutrition Room's Instagram or Facebook page for some of her food humour; a good food pun gets her every time.