No matter how minor or major a surgical procedure may be, recovery is a challenging process. Many people struggle with pain, discomfort, stiffness, soreness, and other issues in addition to limited mobility and activities.
And while recovering, one of the most neglected aspects that patients fail to focus on is their post-surgery diet and nutrition. If you want to make your recovery smoother and easier, here are some tips on what to eat, when to eat it, and how to eat it.
Follow your physician’s orders
First and foremost, you need to follow your physician’s orders when it comes to your post-surgery diet. Depending on the type of surgery you’ve had (orthopedic, gynecological, etc.), your dietary requirements may vary from being general guidelines and recommendations to strict orders. That’s why you should always run any new additions by your primary doctor and surgeon.
Increase your protein intake significantly
One of the most important typical dietary requirements for successful post-surgery recovery is increased protein intake. Whether it’s through vegan or non-vegan sources, you should increase protein consumption in order to aid muscle recovery since protein is an essential building block. Add more eggs, cottage cheese, tofu, beef, chicken, fish, legumes, and other protein-rich foods for the best recovery.
Load up on fruits and vegetables
Additionally, load up on fruits and vegetables that offer tons of antioxidants, fiber, Vitamin C, and other essential nutrients. These foods are some of the best for a post-surgery diet and help your body build its defenses, recuperate, and re-energize, while fighting off infections, fatigue, and even discomfort. If you weren’t a big fruit or vegetable fan before surgery, now is the time to make a lifestyle adjustment.
Be sure to stay hydrated
Another easy tip to boost post-op recovery is to hydrate. Water flushes out toxins and fights infections, helps your muscles recover, and aids the production of new blood in order to sustain your health. It may be challenging to hydrate extensively right off the bat, but it’s worth taking it slow and steady.
Post-surgery diet and overall nutrition play a major role in your healing and well-being. If you’re looking for advice and recommendations, consult your doctor. If you don’t have one, you can find one at Houston Friendswood Specialty Hospital, Texas. He or she will walk you through the post-op process and share other lifestyle modifications, diet and exercise recommendations, and more. Find a specialist that’s right for you through our website and schedule your appointment directly with his or her office.