Ask the dietitian: Husband can’t survive on cookies and coffee

Q: My husband is 79 years old, had throat cancer several years ago and wears false teeth. He is very difficult to prepare food for; he has little appetite and has trouble swallowing and chewing. I am trying to see that he gets basic nutrition. His diet is mostly coffee and cookies.
— M.B., Grand Rapids

A: Coffee and cookies are not going to keep your husband healthy for very long. If he truly is eating just those two items, he is missing a lot of important nutrients.

For starters, he is low in protein. He can still get protein from non-meat foods if chewing is difficult. Can he tolerate milk? If so, would he be willing to try cottage cheese, a milkshake, melted cheese, pudding or yogurt? Is he an egg eater? Eggs are an excellent protein source and usually are easy to digest.

He is getting minimal vitamins and minerals without eating fruit and vegetables. Fresh fruit may be out because of the chewing issues, but can he eat applesauce, canned peaches or other canned fruit? Same with vegetables; the softer ones (well-cooked or canned) are better than none.

Does he like winter squash? That is very nutritious and available year-round in the grocery freezer.

What about tomato juice or a blend of vegetable and fruit juices?

Another option is to try meal replacement liquids such as Carnation Instant Breakfast, Boost or Ensure. (I would choose the higher protein versions of these for him.)

Sometimes, depression can take away any interest in trying to eat. Has that been addressed by his doctor?

If that is a problem and is corrected, food may sound more appealing.

Q: Can regular popcorn be popped in the microwave, and how can I do that?
— D.P., Grand Rapids

A: Yes, you can do regular popcorn in the microwave. The “recipe” I found uses clean, paper sandwich bags. Simply put the popcorn (about one-quarter to one-third cup) in the bag, fold over the top and tape it with one piece of scotch tape (optional to keep the popcorn in). Then lay the bag on its side, and microwave on full power for about 2 minutes.

Stand near the microwave while the popcorn is popping. Listen for the popping to slow, then take the bag out or the popcorn will burn.

Open the bag carefully to let steam escape. This popcorn has no fat and 30 calories per cup.
