We understand the critical role of diet in health, and have the motivation to teach our patients and their caregivers an approach to food preparation that can decrease not only the risk of cancer reoccurrence, but complications from lifestyle-related illnesses including heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. In our survivorship program, we lead hands-on cooking classes for our patients, teaching them how to make recipes that cost around a dollar a serving. When we consider the average amount spent by those who struggle with food insecurity in our community is over three dollars a serving, it’s clear this program has the potential to make a significant impact. Hands-on cooking classes foster a human side to medicine and a way to interact with patients. By working together side-by-side to create meals that are not only delicious, but simple to prepare, we help them manage symptoms and side effects.
Finding Joy in Community
Recently, Milette Siler RD, LD, Community Dietitian at Moncrief Cancer Institute, had a session with a patient who was experiencing taste changes brought on as a side effect of treatment. They reviewed multiple food options to identify items compatible with the patient’s taste preferences, while keeping the patient on track to meet their physical recovery goals. Every individual has a personal, and often emotional, relationship with food, and a diagnosis of cancer escalates the stakes of this relationship. Individualized support coupled with the joy of community and shared experience has the potential to give a patient with cancer the knowledge, skill set, and hope to find enjoyment in eating again.
The journey with cancer often violates a person’s deepest sense of self, but Culinary Medicine can help by restoring autonomy, dignity, and a positive association with food. Culinary Medicine is a part of the treatment path we take with our patients; it is a critical piece of the continuum of care. Most importantly, it is a roadmap to healing and knowledge for a healthy lifetime with food.
Dr. Keith Argenbright
Taste buds change and react with many cancer treatment modalities, and this is another area where the Culinary Medicine approach can support patients with practical solutions. Experimenting with adding or increasing the spices or changing the texture of food can satisfy the palate in new ways. The journey back to loving food should not be a lonely one, and preparing meals with other patients and a supportive guide is a novel, effective approach.
The journey with cancer often violates a person’s deepest sense of self, but Culinary Medicine can help by restoring autonomy, dignity, and a positive association with food. Culinary Medicine is a part of the treatment path we take with our patients; it is a critical piece of the continuum of care. Most importantly, it is a roadmap to healing and knowledge for a healthy lifetime with food.
“…the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s also the place where we heal.”
Kris Carr
