Meal prep helps me maintain steady nutrition with Huntington’s disease

Living with Huntington’s disease (HD) means navigating a wide range of symptoms that can impact my energy, coordination, and even my appetite. Some days, I wake up feeling strong and motivated, while other days, I need to give myself extra grace just to get through simple tasks. One way I’ve learned to support my body and mind is through consistent, mindful meal prep.

Eating well with HD isn’t always easy. I’ve dealt with chorea that makes chopping vegetables difficult, depression that leaves me unmotivated, and waves of fatigue that make it tempting to order takeout instead of cooking. But I’ve also found that planning my meals gives me more control, saves energy during the week, and helps me maintain steady nutrition, which is so important when managing this disease.

HD can cause unintended weight loss and challenges with swallowing or chewing. It also increases the body’s caloric needs, especially when involuntary movements are frequent. Without the right nutrients and calorie support, symptoms can worsen, and recovery from fatigue becomes harder.

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That’s why nutrition isn’t just about eating healthy — it’s about fueling the body in a way that’s supportive, sustainable, and flexible. I’ve had to learn how to listen to my body’s needs while preparing meals that are nourishing and accessible, even on tough days.

Here’s a glimpse into how I meal prep each week while living with HD. The goal isn’t perfection — it’s ease, comfort, and consistency.

Prepping for success on hard days

Every Sunday, I spend about 20-30 minutes planning meals for the week. I use a simple planner and start by looking at what’s already in my fridge and pantry. I usually choose two or three main dishes I can rotate, a few easy breakfasts, and snack options I can grab when I feel fatigued.

Some questions I ask myself:

• Will this meal still taste good reheated?
• Can I eat this with a fork or spoon if coordination is off?
• Is it high in calories and protein to support my energy needs?

I often lean into Mediterranean-style meals because they’re rich in healthy fats, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, which are great for brain health and inflammation.

On prep day (usually Sunday afternoon), I batch-cook meals that reheat well. Some of my go-to meals include:

• Sheet-pan salmon or chicken thighs with roasted sweet potatoes and asparagus
• Quinoa or brown rice bowls with beans and spinach
• Turkey and vegetable soup that’s easy to freeze and reheat
• Overnight oats for breakfast with strawberries and walnuts.

I cook everything at once so I only have to clean up one big mess. Sometimes I sit on a stool to conserve energy or use adaptive kitchen tools to help with chopping. I’ve learned to break tasks into 15-to-20-minute chunks with rest in between, especially when my movements are heightened.

I label meals and store them in clear glass containers in the fridge or freezer. I keep my favorite utensils nearby — ones that are easier to grip or have built-in stabilizers.

I also make sure I have:

• Protein-rich snacks like Greek yogurt, peanut butter crackers, or hard-boiled eggs
• Blender-friendly options for smoothies when chewing is difficult
• Hydration helpers like fruit-infused water or electrolyte packets.

Smoothies have been a lifesaver. I blend almond milk, banana, spinach, and protein powder for a calorie-dense, easy-to-consume meal.

Asking for help when needed

Meal prepping doesn’t have to be a solo act. Sometimes I ask a friend to help me shop or prep ingredients. I also love using grocery delivery apps when getting to the store feels overwhelming. I often find inspirational recipes on Pinterest or blogs like Skinnytaste.

On the hardest days, I remind myself that it’s OK to modify. Some weeks I rely on healthy frozen meals or precut produce. HD has taught me that doing my best is enough — even if that looks different from week to week.

Meal prep has become an act of self-love for me. It’s one way I say, “I care about my health, and I’m doing what I can.” It allows me to nourish my body in a way that reduces stress, honors my energy, and supports my long-term wellness.

If you’re living with HD and struggling with nutrition, start small. Maybe that’s prepping one extra meal this week or organizing your fridge so you can see what’s easy to grab. Celebrate the effort, not just the outcome.

You are worthy of good food, good care, and a routine that supports your journey. Let your kitchen become a space of compassion and strength.

Note: Huntington’s Disease News is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Huntington’s Disease News or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to Huntington’s disease.