Browser does not support script.
Skip to main content
search here
Find out how we produce our information|
Food doesn’t just give us what we need to keep our bodies healthy and energised.
Socially, we often enjoy spending time with family and friends at meals and barbecues, or celebrating with treats like cakes. Sometimes we eat a favourite food to reward ourselves.
Even when you’ve successfully changed to a more balanced diet, you may not always feel like sticking strictly to it. This is normal for all of us.
I try and have my five portions of fruit and veg a day and wholemeal bread and things like that. But I eat meat. I use butter. I drink alcohol. And I aim to do those things in moderation rather than give them up.
Everyone enjoys having an occasional treat or enjoying a meal out with friends, but maybe try having a smaller portion than you’d normally have. If you’re eating well most of the time, you can allow yourself less healthy foods occasionally.
Another idea is to have one ‘free’ day a week, when you can eat whatever you want. You may quickly find that the healthier you eat, the less you crave the so-called ‘forbidden foods’. Your idea of treats may also change to healthier options.
For answers, support or just a chat, call the Macmillan Support Line free (Monday to Friday, 9am-8pm)
If you have any questions about cancer, need support or just want someone to talk to, ask Macmillan.