At HopeSpring we recognize large gatherings are not permitted during the current COVID status in the region, but you may find yourself taking up hosting duties with others in your bubble. Here are some tips for guests or for yourself who may have diet restrictions and or may have difficulty swallowing because of current cancer treatment.

This is really tough, but if they can't eat, they can't eat. It’s not easy for them either. It is best to address the issue. Ask him/her if there is anything they could eat that you can have (mashed potatoes, other soft foods). Let him/her know you are concerned that they will feel left out - perhaps they are worried about "ruining" the day for others. Maybe take the focus off the meal - instead of a sit-down dinner have a buffet. Have people graze all day - an "open house", so he/she won't feel out of place not eating. But most of all enjoy a day with family and friends and let him/her know that it wouldn't be the holiday without them.

What are some tasty soft foods to include in your holiday menu for someone with trouble swallowing and what should I avoid?
Side effects of treatment for cancer can make your throat or mouth sore and can impact your ability to swallow.

Some foods to avoid:

• Sharp, jagged foods such as chips, hard pretzels, toasted bread items, popcorn, and raw nuts
• Acidic foods that may burn your throat such as tomatoes, citrus, vinegars, and pineapple and cranberry juices
• Very hot foods and beverages
• Spicy foods
• Carbonated beverages
• Cured, processed meats such as sausage, pepperoni, and salami which are salty

With those in mind, here are some tasty, soft food ideas:

• Hummus with soft pita bread for dipping (any dips, really).
• Deviled eggs or a quiche (or mini quiche as an appetizer).
• Mashed potatoes - white or sweet.
• A smoothie with flavors of the season, like eggnog or cocoa.
• Jell-O molds - you can add fruit chunks to make it look more interesting.
• Ice cream cake - yum!
• A trifle - pudding, cake & whipped cream in layers. Add fruit to make it even prettier.

Excerpt from oncolink.org by OncoLink Team for full article to go  oncolink.org. 

Follow link below for tasty, satisfying soft food suggestions and recipes.

20+ Soft Food Ideas That Are Actually Satisfying