Knowing exactly how to care for your body after going under the knife can be a challenge. It’s hard to remember what the doctor said after you came out of your drug-induced haze, and you certainly don’t want to put yourself through any more physical misery than is necessary.
Your dietary guidelines post surgery will heavily rely on what kind of procedure your body endured. There are, however, a few general post-op dietary guidelines that work for just about any sort of surgery recovery plan. Read on, and check out a brief look at some post-op dietary dos and don’ts.
Coffee, coffee, coffee
Coffee really isn’t as bad for your body as some people may think. In fact, a cup of coffee after surgery may actually help get you home faster.
If you are a regular coffee drinker, your body will be quite happy to receive its regular dose of caffeine. A cup of coffee after surgery will help you recover from the sedation, and promote healthy bowel movements (which are important after sedation).
For many years, doctors refrained from allowing patients to drink coffee so soon after surgery. Recent studies show that patients can avoid several uncomfortable side effects of their recovery by simply continuing their coffee drinking regimen.
Fiber will help avoid constipation
Constipation is always a concern after a surgical procedure that requires the patient to be anesthetized. After a heavy dose of opioids, patients can become extremely dehydrated. Dehydration makes it difficult for your body to comfortably dispose of waste.
It’s a good idea to eat foods which are high in fiber after any surgery where they put you to sleep. Avocados, leafy greens, and legumes are a few tasty sources you can indulge in after surgery.
Avoid excess dairy and processed foods
The most important “don’t” after surgery is to avoid overloading on dairy products. For most people, eating a lot of dairy foods (like cheese) can cause constipation. Post-op constipation will only add agony to your recovery, so stay away from that cheese pizza.
Lean proteins will help you heal
Lean proteins help the body to make the energy to get all of its many processes done each moment of the day. Protein helps your body heal.
Chicken, turkey, and seafood are all excellent sources of lean proteins. If you’re not much of a meat eater, you can always find plenty of protein in nuts, tofu, and beans.
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Eating fresh fruits and veggies is not only delicious, but these foods are great sources of fiber. Fiber helps you stay regular. Fruits and veggies will also provide your body with various healthy vitamins and nutrients.
Originally posted on May 17, 2019 @ 11:47 am