The human body uses a lot of energy during surgery and also experiences stress.

So, it needs to be well nourished so as to heal, fight inflammation as well as infections.

Nutrient dense foods that are required at this stage are said to foster fast recovery, reduce the incidences of complications and assist in the healing process.

This guide by Karetrip includes an overall dietary advice and the particular foods that may help the healing process after the surgery.

Necessary Nutrients

1. Protein

Protein is required for providing the body with the necessary material for the construction of its tissues, especially in cases when surgeries are to be performed and the body’s tissues need to rebuild the muscles and the skin. Protein is needed so that it can be used in the food and in the body to heal one’s self, build muscle, and create enzymes and hormones for revival.

Foods Rich in Protein

• White meats (chicken turkey etc.)

• Fish (salmon, tuna)

• Eggs

• Beans and lentils

• Tofu and tempeh

• Greek yoghourt

2. Vitamin C

Vitamin C is essential in the formation of collagen which is a structural foundation of skin and some tissues. It also has anti-inflammatory effects and enhances the body’s capacity to scab over as quickly as possible.

Foods Rich in Vitamin C: Foods Rich in Vitamin C

• Oranges, grapefruits and other citrus fruits

• Berries (strawberries, blueberries)

• Kiwi

• Bell peppers

• Broccoli

• Spinach

3. Zinc

The metal takes part in tissue repair as well as immune defence. It promotes the process of division and differentiation of cells most importantly it is involved in synthesis of proteins that are crucial in the healing process.

Foods Rich in Zinc

• Shellfish (oysters, crab)

• Pumpkin seeds

• Nuts (cashews, almonds)

• Wheat products/Seeds (quinoa /oats-)

• Chickpeas and beans

4. Vitamin A

Vitamin A is required for the maintenance of tissues particularly the epithelial tissues that is skin and mucous membranes lining different organs in the body. It also aids the body in strengthening the immune system and lets the body in the process of wound healing.

Foods Rich in Vitamin A: Foods Rich in Vitamin A

• Carrots

• Sweet potatoes

• Kale and spinach

• Apricots

• Liver

5. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect and assists in pain control following surgery. These fats are well known to enhance the health of the cardiovascular system and to control inflammation.

Foods Rich in Omega-3

• The type of fish which should be taken occasionally includes fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines.

• Chia seeds

• Walnuts

• Flaxseeds

• Omega-3 enriched eggs

6. Iron

Iron is needed in order to synthesise haemoglobin, which comes into play when transporting oxygen to different tissues of the body. The requirements for oxygen increase after an operation with a view of replacing worn out tissues and this makes iron vital for the same.

Foods Rich in Iron

• Red meat

• This is food like spinach, other green-leafed vegetables.

• Lentils

• Fortified cereals

• Beans

7. Fibre

Pain may be alleviated by the administration of pain relievers that causes constipation which is another common post-surgical symptom. Dietary fibres make digestion easier, helps in preventing constipation and also assists the gut to heal.

Foods Rich in Fibre

• Complex carbohydrates (brown rice, oats)

• Broccoli and other Bradford Brassica, green, fresh vegetables such as Brussels sprouts.

• Fruits (apples, pears)

• Lentils and black beans come under this category.

• Chia seeds and flaxseeds are high in fibre which will definitely help in helping you flush out the toxins from within your body.

8. Healthy Fats

The other kind of fat, the good fat, can be obtained from sources such as fish that are rich in omega3, and when ingested they aid in minimising inflammation and heal tissues. They also supply energy thereby helping in the provision of energy needed in the recovery process.

Foods Rich in Healthy Fats:

• Avocados

• Olive oil

• Nuts (almonds, walnuts)

• Minor seeds (Flax, Chia seeds etc)

• Omega 3 Fatty acids: The other food sources rich in these nutrients are fatty fishes such as salmon and tuna.

Hydration and Fluids

As much as fans need to get over the game, they also need to drink enough water. ;It regulates toxins via the urinary system, promotes cell health and assists to keep energy levels up by providing water to the body.

Hydration Tips

• Stay hydrated all day, meaning that one should take a lot of water in the course of the day.

• Other forms of fluid include other drinks such as herbal teas, coconut water and broths.

• Do not consume too many products containing caffeine and sugar since these products affect your state of dehydration.

Some Foods Not to Eat after Surgery

There are some specific foods that should be taken in order to help the healing process, but there are also specific foods which should not be taken at all. It’s best to limit or avoid these foods post-surgery: It’s best to limit or avoid these foods post-surgery

• Processed Foods: Processed foods contain unhealthy fats, sugars, and sodium, some of the foods can worsen inflammation and prolong the healing process.

• Sugary Snacks: Fluorescence level of fructose can then decrease the ability of the immune system to fight diseases besides encouraging inflammation.

• Fried Foods: This is because high fat and fried foods are normally hard to digest and can quickly bring about discomfort.

• Alcohol: May have effects on medicines taken and lengthen time of recovery.

Sample Post-Surgery Meal Plan

Breakfast

• A cup of greek yoghurt blended with fruits and chia seeds which has body friendly nutrients such as protein, fibre and vitamin C.

• An apple (WHY not an orange that has more vitamin C) and an orange juice

Lunch

• Grilled chicken breast and quinoa with spinach and green beans (High in protein, zinc, and iron).

• One portion of steamed broccoli with vitamin C and fibre content.

Snack

• Small serving of almonds and a fruit (contains both fats and fibre and vitamins)

Dinner

• Salmon baked in the oven accompanied with sweet potato and mixed green salad (contain omega-3 fatty acid, proteins, and vitamin A).

• When you have a small bowl of lentil soup, do not be too quick to dismiss its health benefits: fibre and protein.

It becomes important to understand that for the proper recovery and healing one should consume a nutritious diet. Protein foods, vitamins, and minerals such as zinc and iron are helpful for tissue repairing inflammation, thus enhancing the immune function.

There is no difference between the amounts of water and fibre for maintaining gut health and avoiding constipation. This also helps in early recovery from the disease; the patient should ensure that they do not take foods that have been processed or contain inflammatory substances.

Last but not least, it is always advisable to seek medical advice on the right diet to take, especially when seeking a customised diet after the surgery to maximise on the gains that have been achieved.

_The information provided represents the views and opinions of Karetrip. It is crucial to conduct your own independent research before making any decisions regarding your healthcare journey _