Eating Well When Cooking Feels Impossible

Eating Well When Cooking Feels Impossible

Living with chronic illness often means that even basic tasks—like preparing a meal—can feel or even BE overwhelming. Some days, standing in the kitchen to chop vegetables or stir a pot is simply not an option. But eating well is crucial for managing symptoms, maintaining energy, and, quite honestly, feeling human. And this morning, my brother made American-style pancakes. Today is infusion day, which basically entails a headache, all day and more often than not, into the next day. Instead of resting in bed, I have decided to pop a paracetamol, get sort of dressed (if leggings and a slouchy hoodie count... and tbh, they don't) while I figure out a plan of action of what to do, or not do with my day, in order to avoid the dreaded "Energy Debt".... 



📸 “A rare sighting of a homemade breakfast in the wild—made with love because I didn't do it and mess it up. I had no spoons, but I needed a smol spoon to eat this up!”


One of the best things I’ve learned from How to Live Well with Chronic Pain and Illness by Toni Bernhard is that asking for help isn’t just about getting our needs met—it also allows others to feel useful. When framed the right way, asking for help with meals can be a win-win.

Instead of vague or passive statements like, “I wish someone would help me cook sometimes,” or frustration-fuelled complaints like, “No one ever helps me with basic self-care things,” a direct request works better. Try something like:

  • “Could you cook for me a couple of times next month?”
  • “When you make [dish], if I give you the ingredients or money in advance, could you box up a portion and send it to me?”

People appreciate clear, actionable requests. It makes it easier for them to say yes—and it removes the guesswork from offering support.

Small Wins in the Kitchen

Even on days when cooking feels impossible, there are ways to make eating well easier. I recently found ready-cooked honey mackerel at my local Asda and paired it with a pre-washed bag of salad. Minimal effort, maximum nutrition.
I will admit, that this too isn't easy, it entails going to the supermarket, or accompanying someone to the supermarket, and giving them your card through the window to actually GET these things... Or if you can get online deliveries, speaking to human beings about this stuff ahead of time.. logistics... 




📸 “Lazy cooking level: expert. When Asda does half the work for you, but you still get the credit for a nutritious meal.”

A Simple Greek Salad Recipe

If you’re up for a little light meal prep, a Greek salad is a great, no-cook option. Here’s a simple recipe:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cucumber, chopped
  • 2 large tomatoes, diced
  • ½ red onion, thinly sliced
  • ½ cup Kalamata olives
  • 100g feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Toss the cucumber, tomatoes, onion, and olives in a bowl.
  2. Drizzle with olive oil and red wine vinegar.
  3. Sprinkle with oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Top with crumbled feta.
  5. Enjoy as is, or serve with some crusty bread for a more filling meal.

Unfiltered Requests, Unapologetic Needs

If you need help, say it. Be direct. Be specific. You deserve support, and the people in your life who care about you want to help—you just need to show them how.
BE UNFILTERED! 

What are your go-to meals for days when cooking feels like too much? Drop your faves in the comments! ⬇️

With Love 

C 

X

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