2020 threw us all quite a few curveballs, but we’re poised and ready to keep gracefully catching them and putting them aside – or running with them – in the new year.

And since no January is complete without talk of starting out with a healthy body and mind, we’ve assembled a list to hopefully help, motivate and inspire this month – and all year long.

Happy New Year!

  • Practice gratitude. Start and end each day by saying or writing (maybe you even got a journal as a holiday gift) at least one thing or moment that you’re thankful for. Gratitude really is one of the best medicines. Oprah has been known to share that the first thing she says in the morning before she gets out of bed is, “thank you.” What a way to greet the day and set the tone.
  • Sleep. Get enough hours for your body and your needs so you can attack the day with gusto. Experts recommend at least seven hours.
  • Move every day – even a quick and simple exercise routine, like a walk around the block, does wonders to clear the head, connect you with nature and the present moment, and get the heart pumping. Other forms of movement, including yoga, are extremely beneficial for people of all ages. Pancreatic patients should consult with their healthcare team before starting or changing their exercise plan or physical activities.
  • Stay on schedule with your regular doctors’ (and dentist!) appointments, when possible and advisable by your doctor, given coronavirus guidelines in your community. If you’re a pancreatic cancer patient, stay in close contact with your healthcare team regarding office visits, treatments and smart ways to stay protected from the coronavirus.
  • Keep washing those hands! When using soap and water, lather up for at least 20 seconds, washing well between fingers and under nails. If you need to use hand sanitizer, look for one that is at least 60% alcohol.
  • A healthy diet goes without saying. Here are a few ways – and recipes – to make sure you’re getting the proper nutrients and giving your body what it deserves:
    • Start the day with a good breakfast – consider these Apple Butternut Squash Pancakes or, if you’re pressed for time, this homemade smoothie recipe: ½ cup fruit, ½ cup liquid (almond milk, soy milk or juice), and ½ cup Greek yogurt (may use protein powder instead). Mix all ingredients in a blender and serve.
    • Stay away from sugary beverages and instead, drink a lot of water
    • Put alcohol consumption on hold or cut back for a month or two – or more
    • Support your favorite restaurants and your local economy when you can, but remember that home-cooked meals (like this Hearty Vegetable and Lentil Soup or this Turkey Meatloaf) are usually healthier options
Contact a Patient Central Associate
The Friday Fix typically covers diet and nutrition topics. For information about PanCAN's Patient Services, including diet and nutrition information and resources to find a dietitian, email patientcentral@pancan.org or call 877-272-6226.