Before you undergo any surgery, it is critical to understand how to prepare for it, the risks involved and the steps you can take to give yourself the best chances for a quick and easy recovery. If you are considering having your hernia repaired, you should plan on eating a healthy diet before and after hernia surgery.
The foods that we eat provide the nutrients and energy our bodies need to repair itself. Before and after surgery, we need to carefully watch what we eat to ensure that our snacks and meals are easily digestible to prevent stress on the wounds. We also need to provide our bodies with the resources to rebuild broken tissue and aid our immune system to avoid infections. Here are some ways that you can help your body to heal after surgery:
Stick to clear liquids - Shortly after surgery, you should consume only clear liquids such as chicken broth, apple juice and tea. The anesthesia which put you to sleep during the surgery may cause you to feel nauseous, so calming fluids can settle your stomach and prevent vomiting.
Foods high in fiber - When the anesthesia wears off and you can handle solid foods, eat fruits, vegetables and whole grains that are high in fiber. Many times pain medications can cause constipation. Harder bowel movements may put additional pressure on your hernia incision which can be painful. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating fiber will soften bowel movements making them easier to pass.
Make protein a priority - Your body needs healthy building blocks to repair itself. Protein rich foods can help reduce inflammation and repair the muscle tissue that was damaged. Lean meat, eggs, beans and tofu are all great ways to get the protein you need.
Foods to avoid after hiatal hernia surgery - If you had hiatal hernia surgery, you should avoid acidic, spicy and fatty foods and carbonated beverages to prevent gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and the problems associated with it such as sore throat, heartburn and fatigue. Chocolate, garlic, onions, mint, alcoholic beverages and coffee may also aggravate your stomach and cause discomfort.
Diet After Hernia Surgery and Beyond
One of the most common complications after hernia surgery is hernia recurrence. Here are some changes that you can make to your diet to help avoid this problem:
Avoid foods high in gluten like white bread and pastries. (Just think about how sticky it is when you mix white flour and water. It can even be used as glue.) The gluten causes the food to get backed up in your intestines which can lead to a lot of pressure in your abdomen. This can create even more pressure when you try to pass a bowel movement which can cause hernia recurrence.
Put down the carbonated beverages, junk food and foods that cause gas. This also causes pressure and digestive problems that may lead to hernia complications.
Fried foods take a long time to digest which can lead to constipation, so treat yourself to these goodies sparingly.
Eat fennel, ginger, anise or other herbs, fruits and vegetables that promote digestion.
When you take a little time and effort to eat the right food after hernia surgery, not only will you help your body to heal faster, but you can hopefully prevent having future hernia surgeries.
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