Introduction and Purpose of the Event
Acıbadem City Oncology Center recently hosted an engaging workshop focused on Nutrition for oncology patient relatives and the use of food enrichment techniques. Led by expert dietitian Gamze Gultekin and psychologist Mehmet Güney Ziyalan, the event aimed to equip participants with both theoretical insights and practical strategies, creating a holistic approach to managing nutrition and emotional support in the lives of cancer patients and their families.
Food Fortification: Definition and Clinical Significance
Food enrichment strategies aim to increase the energy and protein density of meals, which is crucial for patients facing potential weight loss. By utilizing lean protein sources and safe high-energy snack preparations, participants learned to effectively combat nutritional deficiencies and enhance treatment outcomes. The workshop outlined essential practices, such as preserving flavor and texture while increasing nutritional density, and developing coping strategies for treatment side effects.
Recipe Enrichment: Integration of Practical and Theoretical Knowledge
During the workshop, participants experimented with recipes such as chickpea flour bread and peach balls, while also focusing on high-protein, low-volume foods like lentil snacks. These practical applications were designed to boost calorie density while emphasizing a balanced mix of healthy fats, protein sources, and fibrous components. The discussions revolved around sustainable nutritional strategies that cater to patients’ needs even when their appetite diminishes.
The Role of Psychological and Social Support
The significance of psychological support in conjunction with nutritional care was underscored by psychologist Mehmet Güney Ziyalan, who highlighted how emotional well-being directly impacts nutritional choices. The workshop included techniques to manage anxiety and stress for patient relatives, thereby fostering greater compliance and motivation throughout the treatment journey.
Hands-on Workshop Experience and Participant Feedback
Participants engaged in practical recipe applications, receiving valuable insights into creating nutritious meals. Attendees like Neslihan Doygun and Ayşen Kalpalı expressed enthusiasm about acquiring permanent knowledge and safe recipes they could implement at home. They emphasized the long-term benefits of such educational programs, which aim not only for short-term gains but also for lasting nutritional behavior changes.
Triple Team and Its Effect on Treatment Success
According to Prof. Dr. Bülent Karabulut, the collaboration among a team comprising doctors, patients, their families, and support units can significantly improve treatment outcomes. He stressed the value of integrating nutrition, psychological support, and social assistance into a cohesive approach, which can mitigate complications and enhance the overall quality of life for patients.
Powerful Recipes and Nutritional Fortification Strategies
The event showcased a variety of recipes that offered high energy and protein values, with an emphasis on safe practices that could easily be adapted into everyday meals. The focus was on rapid preparation and compliance with dietary needs, ensuring that patients maintain a balanced intake while addressing issues of mass concentration and appetite.
Evaluation of Outcome and Long-Term Effects
The workshop underscored the importance of nutrition-supported treatment plans in managing side effects, preserving muscle mass, and maintaining a quality life. By gaining insights from the event, participants recognized that habitual food fortification can substantially strengthen patients’ nutritional sustainability in their daily routines.
Dissemination of Recipe Booklets and Educational Content
At the conclusion of the event, participants received a recipe booklet filled with nutritional solutions against treatment side effects. This resource was carefully designed for home application and serves as a foundation for ongoing educational programs aimed at improving patients’ nutritional habits.
