Eating when you're not well

It's important to fuel your body with nutrition, and this is especially true on the days when you're feeling under the weather. The following are general suggestions to boost your nutrition intake and your immune system. 

Make sure to still follow your doctor's advice regarding your diet if you have a medical condition. Your health care team can also connect you with a dietician who will be able to help you make healthy eating decisions.

  • When possible, eat a variety of healthy foods. This includes getting plenty of vegetables and fruits, whole grain foods and lean proteins (such as lean meats and poultry, or nuts and seeds). Your body needs as much as help as it can get – try to make the most of every meal.
  • If you feel too ill to eat meals, try to take in small amounts over the course of the day. Remember to vary the foods you eat, to give your body different types of nutrition.
  • Cook ahead. If you experience cycles of good days and bad days, prepare extra food on days when you do cook, and then freeze some for the times when you can't prepare a meal. Try keeping your freezer stocked with frozen fruit and vegetables for the times you can't make it to the grocery store for fresh produce. Or ask friends and family to help you keep your fridge and freezer filled with groceries or prepared meals. Many grocery delivery options also exist – via your supermarket directly, or through special delivery apps and companies. Find out what's available in your area.
  • Keep an eye on your weight. If you're having trouble eating, you may lose weight. On the flip side, if you are eating too much, you may gain weight. Find out what body weight you should maintain and see your doctor or dietician if you're having problems.
  • Take care in the kitchen. If you're already feeling unwell, one of the last things you need is a foodborne illness! Always wash your hands before and after handling food, and make sure you prepare and store food safely. For more information, see "Avoiding foodborne illness" in this article.

All material copyright MediResource Inc. 1996 – 2023. Terms and conditions of use. The contents herein are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Source: www.medbroadcast.com/healthfeature/gethealthfeature/You-are-what-you-eat