Nutritious Desserts

QUESTION: My aunt has breast cancer. She is currently in the hospital with pneumonia. She does not want to eat…will only drink orange Icees. I am trying to find recipes for things she may like that will provide more nutrition. Any idea of where I can find such information?

ANSWER: Those powerful drugs that kill cancers can sure ruin a girl's appetite. I know your goal is calories and nutrition, but your e-mail triggers the words "nourish" and "nurture" for me, and they are a fit with the sweet, wet, and soft foods your aunt seems to prefer right now. That makes me think "desserts," which can be nutritious if you plan in advance. Think orange, pineapple, berries with meringues and whipped cream, and sorbets. Since you have access to the Internet try searching for "desserts + cold" or look for "desserts + kids." One that comes to mind is www.foodfit.com. And remember, the best food your aunt can get right now is spelled "love." She is lucky to have so much of yours.

—Ronda Gates, M.S., R.Ph.