Stock-up on Essentials: Pantry
Pantry Essentials for Sick Days and Painful Days
Whether you’re navigating a child's sick day, your own bout with the flu, or just one of those days when pain decides to tag along for the ride, having these pantry staples on hand can save you from culinary chaos. Here’s your go-to list for survival in the trenches:
For Child Sick Days
Chicken Broth – A warm, nourishing hug in a bowl. Perfect for sipping or using in soup.
Pedialyte- one bottle stocked at all times! I give my kiddo a ¼ cup anytime she has diarrhea.
Easy Mac & Cheese – Comfort food that’s quick to prepare and always a hit.
Applesauce Cups – Gentle on tummies and a good source of energy. Go-go squeeze have fun flavors and can use as sauce to make normal dinner food more appealing for everyday life.
Popsicles – These cold treats can soothe sore throats and provide hydration.
Saltines or Mild Crackers – Great for nibbling without upsetting little tummies.
Bananas – Easy to digest and packed with potassium; they’re like nature's chewy medicine.
Evive Smoothie Cubes-packed with nutrients, fun flavors, and ice-cold for tender gums or sore throats. This fabulous Canadian company has so many options for on the go and blender free if on-the-go demands require it!
Rice cakes- As a simple carb with various flavors, it’s always a hit for upset tummies!
Never under-estimate the simple pleasure & comfort of a basic noodle in sauce.
For Adult Sick Days
Lemon- Slice of this in fresh water iced or hot!
Ramen Noodles – Quick, easy, and customizable. Add an egg if you’re feeling fancy!
Peanut Butter – Packed with protein. Spread it on toast or eat it straight with a spoon (not judging!).
Canned Soups – Stock up on your favourites for warmth and ease.
Honey – A delicious way to soothe a sore throat and sweeten the day.
Oatmeal – Simple to prepare and fills you up with some much-needed goodness.
Ginger Ale- Canada dry baby!!
David’s Tea- Cold 911 or Headache Halo, or Mother’s Little Helper
Elderberry- We love the Sambucus or Sambucol product line, and now that my little one is older than 2, we recently just gave her the syrup form for her cold and she recovered much more quickly! It was shocking!
Try to buy local honey to support your local communities.
For Painful Days
Frozen Vegetables – Easily steamed or sautéed for a nutritious addition to any meal.
Rice – A versatile staple that pairs with anything and is gentle on the stomach.
Nut Bars – High in energy, these are ideal for those days when you can’t muster a full meal.
Canned Fish (like tuna or salmon) – A good source of protein that can be tossed into salads or pastas. Love this on crackers with some cream cheese. Or better yet- salmon cream cheese!!
Dark Chocolate – Because sometimes you just need a little treat to get through the day.
Herbal Supplements – Chamomile or peppermint can help with relaxation and digestive woes. Lately, I love the Blueberry Ginseng tea from Tetley- provides mental clarity.
Electrolytes- There are a variety out nowadays… I personally prefer LMNT for it’s quantity of all the various electrolytes at higher than most. However, Hydralyte singles or NUUN tablets are great on the go options too.
Pineapple- in any shape or form, this fruit is a great anti-inflammatory agent! I get the cans from Costco packed in pineapple juice. Be aware of the difference if you purchase goods in their own fruit juice, syrup, or water.
Keep these essentials stocked, and you’ll be better prepared for whatever the day throws your way—be it sniffles, tummy troubles, or chronic pain flare-ups. Now go forth and conquer those sick days with your trusty pantry treasures!
