What Foods Are Good to Eat During Chemotherapy

Navigating chemotherapy can be challenging, but at FOODS.EDU.VN, we’re here to guide you through dietary choices to ease side effects. Discover nutritious options and delicious recipes tailored to support your well-being during treatment. Exploring supportive nutrition and cancer-fighting foods can make a difference in your journey.

1. Understanding the Importance of Nutrition During Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy, while effective in treating cancer, often comes with a range of side effects that can significantly impact a person’s appetite and ability to eat. Proper nutrition during this time is not just about maintaining weight; it’s crucial for:

• Maintaining Strength and Energy: Chemotherapy can be incredibly tiring. Eating the right foods provides the necessary fuel to combat fatigue.
• Supporting the Immune System: Treatment can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections. Nutritious foods help bolster your body’s defenses.
• Repairing Tissues: Chemotherapy can damage healthy cells alongside cancer cells. A balanced diet aids in the repair and regeneration of these tissues.
• Managing Side Effects: Many side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, and mouth sores, can be alleviated with specific dietary choices.
• Enhancing Treatment Effectiveness: Good nutrition can improve your body’s response to chemotherapy.

Understanding these benefits is the first step in making informed food choices during chemotherapy.

2. Common Side Effects of Chemotherapy and How Food Can Help

Chemotherapy affects everyone differently, but some side effects are more common. Knowing how food can help manage these issues is invaluable.

2.1 Nausea

Nausea is a frequent side effect of chemotherapy, making it difficult to eat and maintain adequate nutrition.

Dietary Recommendations:

• Small, Frequent Meals: Eating small portions throughout the day can be easier to tolerate than large meals.
• Bland Foods: Opt for foods that are easy to digest and less likely to cause irritation.
• Cold or Room-Temperature Foods: These tend to have less aroma, which can reduce nausea triggers.
• Ginger: Known for its anti-nausea properties, ginger can be consumed in teas, candies, or capsules.

Suggested Foods:

Food	Description	Why It Helps
Cream of Wheat	A warm, easily digestible cereal.	Gentle on the stomach and provides a source of carbohydrates.
Oatmeal	Another warm cereal option, high in fiber.	Soothes the digestive system and provides sustained energy.
Cold Cereal	Choose low-sugar options.	Easy to eat and can be fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Soups	Broth-based soups are hydrating and easy to digest.	Provides fluids and electrolytes, essential for hydration.
Cold Sandwiches	Use lean proteins and simple fillings.	Offers protein without being too heavy or greasy.
Cottage Cheese	High in protein and easy to eat.	Provides essential amino acids for tissue repair.
Hard Boiled Eggs	A good source of protein.	Easily digestible protein source.
Plain Pasta, Rice	Carbohydrate-rich and easy to digest.	Provides energy without being overly flavorful.
Toast, Crackers	Dry, simple options that can help settle the stomach.	Absorbs stomach acids and reduces nausea.
Canned Fruit, Applesauce	Sweet and easy to digest.	Provides vitamins and fiber in an easily tolerated form.
Jell-O	Light and refreshing.	Provides fluids and a small amount of carbohydrates.
Custard, Pudding	Smooth and creamy, easy to swallow.	Provides calories and can be fortified with nutrients.
Sherbet, Popsicles	Cold and refreshing.	Helps with hydration and can soothe a sore throat.
Frozen Fruit Bars	Choose options without added sugar.	Provides vitamins and hydration.
Soda, Juice, Herbal Tea	Clear liquids to stay hydrated.	Helps maintain fluid balance and can soothe the stomach.
Baked/Broiled Chicken	Lean protein source.	Provides essential amino acids without being greasy or heavily seasoned.
Soft Fruits/Vegetables	Peaches, mild-tasting options.	Easy to digest and provides vitamins and minerals.
Clear Liquids	Apple/cranberry juice, low-salt broth.	Essential for preventing dehydration.
Ginger/Peppermint Tea	Served lukewarm or cold.	Soothes the stomach and can reduce nausea.

2.2 Vomiting

Vomiting often follows nausea and can be triggered by treatment or even the smell of certain foods.

Dietary Recommendations:

• Stop Eating: Refrain from eating or drinking until vomiting is under control.
• Clear Liquids: Start with tiny sips of clear liquids and gradually increase the amount as tolerated.
• Soft Diet: Once you can tolerate liquids, move on to soft, bland foods.
• Potassium and Magnesium: Replenish these electrolytes, which can be lost through vomiting.

Suggested Foods:

Food	Description	Why It Helps
Clear Liquids	Water, bouillon, apple/cranberry juice, ginger ale.	Rehydrates the body and provides essential electrolytes.
Plain Gelatin Desserts	Light and easy to digest.	Provides fluids and a small amount of carbohydrates.
Popsicles	Hydrating and can soothe the throat.	Helps maintain fluid balance and can ease discomfort.
Sports Drinks	Gatorade, etc.	Replenishes electrolytes lost during vomiting.
Vegetable Broth	Provides sodium and fluids.	Hydrates and helps maintain electrolyte balance.
Teas	Ginger or peppermint tea.	Soothes the stomach and can reduce nausea.
Mashed Potatoes	Soft and easy to digest.	Provides carbohydrates for energy.
Rice	Plain white rice is gentle on the stomach.	Offers a source of carbohydrates without being irritating.
Pureed Fruits	Applesauce, etc.	Provides vitamins and fiber in an easily tolerated form.
Smoothies	Easy to swallow and can be packed with nutrients.	Provides a good source of vitamins, minerals, and hydration.
Fruit Nectars	Peach or apricot nectar.	Provides a sweet taste and essential vitamins.
Yogurts	Plain yogurt can be soothing.	Contains probiotics that can aid in digestion and gut health.
Cereals with Milk	Choose easy-to-digest options.	Provides carbohydrates and can be fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Potassium-Rich Foods	Bananas, potatoes, orange juice, tomatoes, apricots.	Replenishes potassium lost during vomiting.
Magnesium-Rich Foods	Spinach, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole grains.	Replenishes magnesium lost during vomiting.

2.3 Constipation

Chemotherapy, certain medications, and reduced physical activity can lead to constipation.

Dietary Recommendations:

• Increase Fiber Intake: Gradually add more fiber to your diet to help regulate bowel movements.
• Drink Plenty of Fluids: Fiber needs water to work effectively.
• Limit Caffeine: Caffeine can dehydrate you and worsen constipation.
• Warm Beverages: A warm, non-caffeinated drink in the morning can stimulate bowel movements.

Suggested Foods:

Food	Description	Why It Helps
Whole Grain Breads/Pastas	Provides fiber.	Adds bulk to the stool and promotes regular bowel movements.
Bran Cereals	High in fiber.	Stimulates bowel movements.
Cooked Beans/Peas/Lentils	Excellent sources of fiber.	Increases stool bulk and supports healthy gut bacteria.
Raw Fruits/Vegetables	Skins provide additional fiber.	Provides fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Dried Fruit	Prunes, figs, dates.	Concentrated source of fiber and natural sugars that can stimulate the bowels.
Prune Juice	Natural laxative.	Contains sorbitol, a natural sugar that can help soften stool.
Hot Lemon Water	Warm beverage to stimulate bowels.	Aids in hydration and can stimulate digestion.

2.4 Diarrhea

Diarrhea can result from chemotherapy, radiation therapy, malabsorption, or antibiotics.

Dietary Recommendations:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of room-temperature liquids to replace lost fluids.
• Potassium-Rich Foods: Replenish potassium lost due to diarrhea.
• BRAT Diet: Bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast are gentle on the digestive system.
• Avoid Irritating Foods: Cut back on high-fiber, fried, and spicy foods.

Suggested Foods:

Food	Description	Why It Helps
Cream of Wheat	Easy to digest.	Provides carbohydrates without irritating the digestive system.
Oatmeal	Gentle on the stomach.	Soothes the digestive system and provides sustained energy.
Plain Rice	Binds the stool.	Helps solidify bowel movements and reduce diarrhea.
Corn Cereals	Easy to digest.	Provides carbohydrates and is gentle on the stomach.
Canned Fruits/Applesauce	Soft and easy to digest.	Provides vitamins and fiber in an easily tolerated form.
White Rice	Gentle on the digestive system.	Less likely to cause irritation than brown rice.
Pasta	Simple carbohydrates.	Provides energy without being overly flavorful.
Potatoes without Skin	Easy to digest.	Provides carbohydrates and electrolytes.
Sandwiches on White Bread	Simple and easy to digest.	Offers a mild source of carbohydrates and protein.
Soups without Cream	Provides fluids and electrolytes.	Helps maintain hydration and provides essential nutrients.
Cheese and Crackers	Easy to eat and provides some protein.	Offers a combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.
Graham Crackers	Gentle on the stomach.	Provides a source of carbohydrates and can help settle the stomach.
Peanut Butter	Provides protein and calories.	Offers a nutritious source of energy.
Eggs	Easily digestible protein source.	Provides essential amino acids for tissue repair.
Jell-O and Popsicles	Hydrating and soothing.	Helps maintain fluid balance and can ease discomfort.
Soda and Herbal Tea	Provides fluids.	Aids in hydration.
Nutritional Drinks	Ensure, Resource, Sustacal, PediaSure, Boost.	Provides essential nutrients and calories in an easily digestible form.
BRAT Diet	Bananas, Rice, Applesauce, Toast.	Provides bland, easy-to-digest foods that can help solidify bowel movements.

2.5 Loss of Appetite

Chemotherapy can cause a significant loss of appetite, making it challenging to get enough nutrients.

Dietary Recommendations:

• Eat Small, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller meals more often can be less daunting than trying to eat large meals.
• High-Calorie Foods: Choose foods that are dense in calories and nutrients.
• Snack Between Meals: Keep snacks readily available to nibble on throughout the day.
• Plan Meals in Advance: Having a menu and groceries on hand can make eating more appealing.
• Make Food Visually Appealing: Presentation can make a big difference.
• Pleasant Mealtime Atmosphere: Create a relaxing and enjoyable environment for eating.

Suggested Foods:

Food	Description	Why It Helps
Avocados	High in healthy fats and calories.	Provides a concentrated source of energy and nutrients.
Nuts and Seeds	Packed with calories and nutrients.	Offers a nutritious and energy-dense snack.
Puddings	High-calorie and easy to swallow.	Provides calories and can be fortified with nutrients.
Cooked Cereals	Warm and comforting.	Provides carbohydrates and is easy to digest.
Dried Fruits	Concentrated source of calories and nutrients.	Offers a convenient and energy-rich snack.
Vegetables Dipped in Hummus	Healthy and flavorful snack.	Provides a combination of protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
Olive Oil in Salads	Adds calories and healthy fats.	Enhances the flavor and nutritional value of salads.
Fruit Smoothies	Easy to drink and can be packed with nutrients.	Provides a good source of vitamins, minerals, and hydration.
High-Calorie Shakes	Convenient way to increase calorie intake.	Offers a quick and easy way to boost calorie and nutrient intake.
Protein Drink Supplements	Ensure, etc.	Provides essential nutrients in an easily digestible form.
Sandwiches	Choose high-calorie fillings.	Offers a versatile and customizable meal option.
Cheese and Crackers	Provides protein and calories.	Offers a combination of carbohydrates, protein, and fat.

2.6 Mouth Sores, Chewing, or Swallowing Difficulties

Mouth sores and difficulties in chewing or swallowing are common during cancer treatment.

Dietary Recommendations:

• Small, Frequent Meals: Easier to manage than large meals.
• Cool, Smooth, Bland Foods: Less irritating to the mouth and throat.
• Soft Solids and Liquids: Easier to swallow.
• Cut or Grind Foods: Reduces the amount of chewing required.
• Liquid Supplements: Ensure, etc.

Suggested Foods:

Food	Description	Why It Helps
Nectars and Apple Juice	Smooth and easy to swallow.	Provides fluids and a sweet taste.
Canned Fruit	Soft and easy to digest.	Provides vitamins and fiber in an easily tolerated form.
Applesauce	Smooth and soothing.	Gentle on the mouth and throat.
Cream of Wheat	Warm and comforting.	Provides carbohydrates and is easy to digest.
Potato Soup	Creamy and easy to swallow.	Provides fluids and nutrients.
Chicken Noodle Soup	Provides fluids and protein.	Offers a comforting and nutritious meal option.
Rice Porridge	Soft and easy to digest.	Provides carbohydrates and is gentle on the stomach.
Custard	Smooth and creamy.	Provides calories and can be fortified with nutrients.
Puddings	Easy to swallow and provides calories.	Offers a sweet and comforting treat.
Yogurt	Cooling and soothing.	Contains probiotics that can aid in digestion and gut health.
Jell-O	Soft and easy to swallow.	Provides fluids and a small amount of carbohydrates.
Popsicles	Soothing and hydrating.	Helps maintain fluid balance and can ease discomfort.
Ice Cream	Cooling and soothing.	Offers a comforting and caloric treat.
Sherbet	Provides fluids and a sweet taste.	Provides a refreshing option.
Milkshakes	Easy to drink and provides calories.	Offers a convenient and energy-rich beverage.
Nutritional Drinks	Ensure, Resource, Sustacal, PediaSure, Boost.	Provides essential nutrients and calories in an easily digestible form.
Liquid Supplements	ProSure, Ensure Plus, Boost Plus.	Provides concentrated nutrition and calories.

2.7 Taste and Smell Changes

Chemotherapy can alter your sense of taste and smell, making food unappealing.

Dietary Recommendations:

• Avoid Red Meats: If they taste metallic, opt for chicken, turkey, or dairy.
• Tart Foods: If foods have less taste, try tart options like yogurt or lemonade.
• Cold or Room Temperature Foods: These may have less pronounced odors.
• Marinated or Spicy Foods: If tolerated, these can add flavor.
• Hard Candies: Can help eliminate bad tastes between meals.

Suggested Foods:

Food	Description	Why It Helps
Chicken and Turkey	Alternatives to red meat if it tastes metallic.	Provides protein without the metallic taste.
Dairy Products	Milk, cheese, yogurt.	Offers a variety of flavors and textures.
Casseroles	Easy to eat and can be customized with different ingredients.	Provides a combination of carbohydrates, protein, and vegetables.
Yogurt	Tart and refreshing.	Can stimulate the taste buds.
Lemon/Orange Jell-O	Provides a tart taste.	Adds flavor and can be soothing.
Lemonade	Tart and refreshing.	Can stimulate the taste buds.
Cold Foods	Sandwiches, salads.	Less likely to have strong odors.
Room Temperature Foods	Pasta salads, cold cuts.	Reduces the intensity of smells.
Marinated Foods	Enhances flavors.	Adds zest and can make food more appealing.
Spicy Foods	Enchiladas, herbed chicken, spaghetti.	If tolerated, can add flavor.
Hard Candies	Can help take away a bad taste.	Provides a distraction from unpleasant tastes.

3. Practical Tips for Eating Well During Chemotherapy

Beyond specific food choices, there are several practical tips to help you maintain good nutrition during chemotherapy.

• Plan Ahead: Meal planning can help ensure you have nutritious options available.
• Cook in Advance: Prepare meals when you feel well and freeze them for later.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
• Listen to Your Body: Eat what you can, when you can.
• Consult a Dietitian: A registered dietitian can provide personalized advice and support.
• Oral Hygiene: Maintain good oral hygiene to prevent mouth sores and infections.

4. Meal Planning for Chemotherapy Patients

A well-structured meal plan can make a significant difference in managing side effects and ensuring adequate nutrition during chemotherapy. Here’s a sample meal plan that can be adapted based on individual preferences and needs:

Breakfast:

• Option 1: Oatmeal with soft fruit (like canned peaches) and a drizzle of honey
• Option 2: Scrambled eggs with a slice of whole-wheat toast
• Option 3: Smoothie made with yogurt, banana, and a scoop of protein powder

Mid-Morning Snack:

• Option 1: Cottage cheese with applesauce
• Option 2: A handful of nuts (if tolerated)
• Option 3: A small cup of yogurt

Lunch:

• Option 1: Chicken noodle soup with crackers
• Option 2: Cold turkey sandwich on white bread with lettuce and mayonnaise
• Option 3: Baked potato with cheese and a dollop of sour cream

Afternoon Snack:

• Option 1: Jell-O or pudding
• Option 2: Popsicle or sherbet
• Option 3: A small bowl of cream of wheat

Dinner:

• Option 1: Baked chicken with mashed sweet potatoes and steamed carrots
• Option 2: Plain pasta with butter and Parmesan cheese
• Option 3: Rice porridge (congee) with shredded chicken

Evening Snack:

• Option 1: Milkshake or protein shake
• Option 2: Small bowl of ice cream
• Option 3: Herbal tea with a few crackers

Tips for Adapting the Meal Plan:

• Adjust Portion Sizes: Keep meals small and frequent to avoid overwhelming the digestive system.
• Consider Taste Changes: If meat tastes metallic, replace it with poultry or dairy products.
• Hydration: Drink water, herbal tea, or clear broths throughout the day to stay hydrated.
• Manage Nausea: Ginger tea or ginger candies can help alleviate nausea.
• Fiber Intake: If constipation is an issue, incorporate high-fiber foods like cooked beans, peas, and lentils, but introduce them gradually.
• Mouth Sores: Avoid acidic, spicy, and rough-textured foods. Opt for soft, bland choices like applesauce, mashed potatoes, and yogurt.

5. Recipes to Support Chemotherapy Patients

Here are a few recipes designed to be gentle on the system while providing essential nutrients.

5.1 Ginger-Lemon Tea for Nausea

Ingredients:

• 1 inch of fresh ginger, peeled and sliced
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 4 cups of water
• Honey to taste

Instructions:

1. Bring water to a boil in a saucepan.
2. Add ginger and simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Remove from heat and add lemon slices.
4. Let steep for 5 minutes.
5. Strain the tea and add honey to taste.

Why it Helps: Ginger is known for its anti-nausea properties, and lemon adds a refreshing flavor that can soothe the stomach.

5.2 Creamy Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/4 cup milk (or soy milk)
• 2 tablespoons butter (or olive oil)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil sweet potatoes until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Add milk and butter, and mash until smooth.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Why it Helps: Sweet potatoes are packed with vitamins and are easy to digest. The creamy texture makes them easy to swallow.

5.3 Chicken and Rice Porridge (Congee)

Ingredients:

• 1 cup white rice
• 6 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped green onions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly.
2. In a large pot, combine rice and chicken broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the rice is very soft and the mixture is porridge-like.
4. Stir in shredded chicken and season with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with green onions if desired.

Why it Helps: This porridge is easy to digest and provides protein and carbohydrates. The warm, comforting texture can be very soothing.

6. The Role of Supplements

While a balanced diet should be the primary focus, certain supplements may be beneficial during chemotherapy.

• Multivitamins: Help fill any nutritional gaps.
• Probiotics: Support gut health and alleviate diarrhea.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce inflammation and support immune function.
• Vitamin D: Crucial for bone health and immune support.

Important Note: Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements, as they can interact with chemotherapy treatments.

7. Managing Specific Dietary Challenges

Chemotherapy can present unique dietary challenges. Here’s how to address some specific issues:

• Difficulty Swallowing: Opt for pureed foods, smoothies, and liquid supplements.
• Metallic Taste: Use plastic utensils, marinate meats, and choose non-metallic protein sources.
• Dry Mouth: Sip water frequently, use sugar-free gum or candy to stimulate saliva production.
• Weight Loss: Focus on calorie-dense foods and consider nutritional supplements.

8. Understanding E-E-A-T and YMYL in Cancer Nutrition

When providing information about nutrition during chemotherapy, it’s crucial to adhere to E-E-A-T (Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness) and YMYL (Your Money or Your Life) principles. This ensures the content is reliable, accurate, and beneficial to readers making important health decisions.

E-E-A-T:

• Experience: Share real-life experiences or case studies related to nutrition during chemotherapy to add a practical dimension to the content.
• Expertise: Ensure the content is written or reviewed by qualified dietitians, nutritionists, or healthcare professionals with specific knowledge in oncology nutrition.
• Authoritativeness: Cite credible sources such as peer-reviewed studies, reputable medical websites, and guidelines from oncology organizations.
• Trustworthiness: Be transparent about the sources of information, provide disclaimers when necessary, and avoid making exaggerated claims.

YMYL:

• Accuracy: Provide precise and up-to-date information about dietary recommendations during chemotherapy.
• Reliability: Ensure that all advice is based on scientific evidence and clinical guidelines.
• Safety: Emphasize the importance of consulting with healthcare providers before making any significant dietary changes or starting supplements.
• Objectivity: Present information in an unbiased manner, avoiding any conflicts of interest or promotion of specific products without scientific backing.

9. Latest Trends and Updates in Cancer Nutrition

Staying informed about the latest developments in cancer nutrition is essential. Here are some recent trends and updates:

Trend/Update	Description	Relevance to Chemotherapy Patients
Personalized Nutrition	Tailoring dietary recommendations based on individual genetic, metabolic, and lifestyle factors.	Allows for more targeted strategies to manage side effects and optimize nutrition.
The Role of the Gut Microbiome	Understanding how the gut microbiome affects immune function, inflammation, and response to treatment.	Probiotics and prebiotic-rich foods can support gut health and improve treatment outcomes.
Anti-Inflammatory Diets	Emphasizing foods that reduce inflammation, such as fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids.	Can help manage side effects and support overall health during chemotherapy.
Plant-Based Eating	Focusing on plant-based foods while limiting processed foods and animal products.	Provides essential nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber, which can support immune function and gut health.
Intermittent Fasting	Cycling between periods of eating and fasting.	May help reduce side effects, but should only be considered under strict medical supervision.
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)	Individualized nutrition counseling and support from a registered dietitian.	Ensures that patients receive tailored advice to meet their specific nutritional needs and manage symptoms.

10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the best foods to eat when feeling nauseous during chemotherapy?
   • Bland, easy-to-digest foods like cream of wheat, oatmeal, and toast are good choices.
2. How can I increase my appetite during chemotherapy?
   • Eat small, frequent meals, choose high-calorie foods, and plan your meals in advance.
3. What should I do if I have mouth sores from chemotherapy?
   • Opt for soft, cool, and bland foods like applesauce, yogurt, and mashed potatoes.
4. Are there any foods I should avoid during chemotherapy?
   • Avoid spicy, acidic, and high-fiber foods if you have diarrhea or mouth sores.
5. How important is hydration during chemotherapy?
   • Hydration is crucial. Drink plenty of water, herbal tea, and clear broths to prevent dehydration.
6. Can supplements help with chemotherapy side effects?
   • Certain supplements like multivitamins, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids may be beneficial, but consult your doctor first.
7. What is the BRAT diet, and when should I use it?
   • The BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) is useful for managing diarrhea.
8. How can I manage taste changes during chemotherapy?
   • Try tart foods, cold or room-temperature foods, and marinated or spicy foods if tolerated.
9. Is it safe to exercise during chemotherapy?
   • Light exercise is generally safe and can help with fatigue, but check with your doctor first.
10. Where can I find more personalized nutrition advice during chemotherapy?
    • Consult with a registered dietitian who specializes in oncology nutrition. They can provide tailored recommendations based on your specific needs.

At FOODS.EDU.VN, we understand the challenges that come with chemotherapy and are committed to providing you with the knowledge and resources you need to navigate this journey. For more in-depth information, personalized recipes, and expert advice, visit our website at foods.edu.vn or contact us at 1946 Campus Dr, Hyde Park, NY 12538, United States, or via Whatsapp at +1 845-452-9600.

Let us help you nourish your body and support your well-being during this challenging time.