Post-Surgery Food: What to Eat and What to Avoid?

The Importance of Proper Nutrition After Surgery

After surgery, various aspects of physiological functions need time to recover. The body will be relatively weak, and the wound may be painful or uncomfortable. Often, a loss of appetite and a decline in physical strength can occur. Post-surgery nutritional care is crucial! In addition to following the dietary guidance provided by the doctor, choosing suitable foods for consumption after surgery can help the body recover faster and safer.

5 Nutritious Foods to Eat After Surgery

Healthy foods to eat after surgery.

Your post-surgery food list should include plenty of nutrient-rich, easy-to-digest foods. Here are some of the best foods to eat after surgery!

Protein

The main sources are eggs, legumes, fish, and meat, among others. By providing essential amino acids necessary for tissue repair and reconstruction, these foods can facilitate a faster recovery process in the body. Amino acids are commonly referred to as the building blocks of life due to their critical role in cellular structure and function. Proteins also play a significant role in maintaining muscle quality, promoting wound healing, and restoring strength. People often feel weak and lethargic after surgery, so any additional boost in strength is beneficial.

Fresh Fruits

Fruits such as berries, apples, oranges, kiwi, and mangoes are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and improve digestion.

Fruits are also a great source of energy, something that many people find hard to come by after surgery. By incorporating fresh fruits into your post-surgery diet, you can get all the energy you need without resorting to sugary drinks and foods.

Dark Leafy Vegetables

Vegetables are also packed with everything you need to strengthen your immune system and help your body recover faster post-surgery.

Dark leafy greens that are filled with fiber, calcium, and iron are especially beneficial. These vitamins can help improve your condition post-surgery and hasten the recovery process. Examples include kale and spinach.

Whole Grains

Brown rice, whole wheat bread, and quinoa are excellent sources of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can also aid in regulating digestion and preventing constipation, which is particularly important for individuals in the process of recovery.

Chicken Essence

Chicken essence, also known as the essence of chicken, is a traditional Chinese supplement that has been around for centuries. Studies have shown that chicken essence can alleviate physical and even mental fatigue, which can be helpful when recovering from surgery. Chicken essence is a small-molecule protein rich in essential amino acids required by the human body. A key characteristic of amino acids is their high absorbability by the body. By alleviating gastrointestinal burden, chicken essence enables rapid replenishment of essential nutrients and energy for the body. Among these amino acids, branched-chain amino acids, arginine, and glutamine can enhance the body's resistance. Notably, glutamine, in particular, plays a significant role in post-surgery wound recovery.

Foods to Avoid After Surgery

Choosing the right post-surgery foods for better recovery.. 

Now that we’ve discussed the different healthy post-surgery foods you should include in your diet, it’s important to note that there are also some foods that you should avoid after surgery. Here are some of them.

• Dairy. While dairy products such as cheese, milk, and yogurt are generally healthy, they can be pretty difficult for your body to digest after surgery. Sometimes, they may cause constipation, which is problematic for anyone recovering from surgery. They can also cause stomach discomfort, so it's best to avoid them until you're fully recovered. You can try replacing them with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or vegan cheese.

• Fatty foods.  Foods high in fat can slow down the healing process and increase inflammation, which is the opposite of what you want when you're trying to recover. They can also heighten the risk of nausea and vomiting in recently operated patients. Instead, try incorporating healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and seeds into your diet.

• Highly processed foods. Foods such as french fries, bacon, and burgers are often high in sodium and unhealthy fats. Not only can these delay digestion, but they can also contribute to dehydration when taken in excessive amounts. You can try replacing them with whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

• Spicy foods. Eating spicy food can irritate your digestive system. This can be particularly problematic for those who have recently gone through surgery since the body is already in a weakened state. Instead, try incorporating herbs and mild spices like ginger, cinnamon, or turmeric to add flavor to your meals.

• Alcoholic beverages. One of the worst post-surgery foods is alcohol. Aside from negatively interacting with your medicines, consuming it can impair wound healing, disrupt sleep patterns, and increase the risk of infection. Instead, try drinking plenty of water and herbal teas to stay hydrated and aid in recovery.

It is important to note that proper nutrition is essential for a speedy and healthy recovery after surgery. Along with following the dietary instructions provided by your doctor, consuming the right foods can significantly help in healing and restoring your strength. Additionally, consider taking small, frequent meals instead of three large ones. This can help prevent nausea and promote better digestion.

Tips for a Nutritious Post-Surgery Diet

As previously mentioned, a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can accelerate and effectively promote post-surgery recovery. However, before making significant dietary changes, it is essential to exercise caution and avoid haste. Refrain from consuming chicken essence or similar supplements when there are unhealed wounds, fever, inflammation, redness, swelling, or pain.

First and foremost, consulting with a nutritionist or physician is crucial. They can assess your individual needs and provide personalized recommendations. Certain surgeries may have specific dietary guidelines, resulting in specific foods to be consumed or avoided based on your particular circumstances. Additionally, maintaining adequate hydration by drinking enough water daily is vital. Water helps eliminate toxins from the body and expedites the recovery process.

Finally, but equally important, consider incorporating chicken essence or similar products like 田原香滴鸡精 into your post-surgery diet. Not only is it easy and convenient to consume, but it also contains all the essential nutrients required to accelerate healing. Visit 田原香滴鸡精 now and provide your body with the nourishment it needs for a swift recovery after surgery!