Patients undergoing treatment for head and neck cancer now have access to a cookbook specifically designed to meet their needs and reduce the impact of their treatment.
The ‘Not So Porridge Cookbook’ was created by Kirsty Clutterbuck, head and neck cancer specialist nutritionist at University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust.
A collection of meal ideas aimed at supporting people with head and neck cancer preparing for and undergoing treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy.
This book contains many recipes to help patients with altered or complete loss of taste, odynophagia, loss of appetite, and more.
Kirsty, who has been a registered dietitian for 14 years, explained:
“The Not so porridge cookbook was created to inspire and inspire people’s interest in food, while also helping them maintain their weight and fitness during a difficult and complex diagnosis.
“The recipe contains ingredients that are high in protein and maintain energy, which is important for people undergoing cancer treatment.”
The book was designed around patient feedback and includes recipes and ideas from people receiving treatment.
Added Lisa Barot, Director of Cancer Nursing and AHP at Sussex University Hospital
“Dedicated cookbooks featuring recipes from clinicians and inspired by people who have lived or have lived with head and neck cancer are a valuable part of a patient’s cancer care.
“Being diagnosed with cancer and undergoing treatment is an extremely difficult time for anyone. This is key to providing the best possible care.”
One of the book’s signature dishes, Seagull Fish Pie, was inspired by Kirsty and her patients’ love of Brighton & Hove Albion Football Club.
Other recipes include Mango Lassi, Hummus “Five Ways,” Tofu and Noodle Soup, and Tabernonova Tortillas.
All recipes are designed with fewer ingredients and similar foods are used throughout the book with the aim of reducing costs and time spent shopping and making cooking easier.
TV personality Tommy Walsh has contributed to a new cookbook and also sampled some signature dishes.
Thanking the team at Sussex Cancer Center, he said:
“A job well done to everyone involved in putting this book together. This book will be of great help to many people, and I would like to thank everyone for their kind cooperation!”
The ‘Not So Porridge Cookbook’ can be ordered from the Sussex Cancer Foundation, which funded the project in partnership with the Sussex Cancer Center in Brighton.
Proceeds from this book will support cancer patients in Sussex, providing them with access to vital resources and care.
