Q&A: Coping with Cancer During the Holidays

Every Sunday, Cancer Services publishes a Cancer Q&A in the Health Section of The Advocate.

Q: I am battling cancer this holiday season. Do you have any tips to help me deal with the holidays?

A: Coping with holidays when you have cancer can be very difficult. The following are some tips that you may want to try in order to help you cope:

• set limitations and make realistic goals
• ask for help
• don’t hide your emotions – it’s okay to feel overwhelmed
• consider talking to a counselor
• plan early so you can be prepared
• remember that it’s okay to say “no”
• surround yourself with supportive people
• continue healthy eating and exercise to help ease stress
• do not isolate yourself - stay connected to those you love
• create new tradition, if you feel okay doing so
• don’t forget to relish moments of joy no matter how bad things might seem
• go out to eat or have a pot-luck dinner if preparing a meal is too much
• be picky about what you choose to expend your energy on
• think about what questions might be asked concerning your cancer and plan how you will answer questions
• if you are away from family, try and spend time with friends or neighbors

For more information contact Courtney Britton, librarian at Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge at 225-927-2273 or visit the Resource Center at 550 Lobdell Avenue.

Q&A: Holiday Nutrition

Every Sunday, Cancer Services publishes a Cancer Q&A in the Health Section of The Advocate.


Q: What are some things to consider when preparing for holiday meals during my cancer treatment?

A: One of the best ideas is to do just what you are doing now: Plan ahead. Consider the side effects you’re experiencing and what foods can help alleviate them, or what foods you should avoid. If you are hosting the dinner yourself you will be able to control what you cook. If other people are creating part of the meal, there is a good chance they will ask you if you have any specific dietary restrictions. If they don’t, make sure that you create your own items so you know that you have some food you can eat. If you are unsure of what is best for you, consult a registered dietician or ask your doctor or nurse to provide a consultation. Additionally, the library at Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge has cookbooks and materials on nutrition available to anyone to check out.

It is also smart to make healthy replacements. Focus on using spices for flavor instead of just depending on salt and use low sodium broth when possible. Eat a roasted turkey instead of a fried version. Try wild rice instead of a traditional stuffing. Have fresh fruit for dessert or make healthy substitutions during baking, such as egg whites or applesauce instead of oil. Avoid alcohol, instead opting for water or a club soda.

Perhaps one of the best suggestions is simply to focus on family and friends instead of food. Take time to talk with those you might not see often and make plans for other activities outside of eating. Volunteer at a charity event or take time to make holiday decorations or presents as a group. And a post-dinner walk instead of a post-dinner nap is a great opportunity to continue conversations and to get exercise.

For more information contact Courtney Britton, librarian at Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge at 225-927-2273 or visit the Resource Center at 550 Lobdell Avenue.