General surgeon Dr. Elijah Mobley provides health care and general surgery to patients in Los Angeles County. He is a dedicated surgeon that offers great advice to his patients both pre and post-operation.
After you have surgery, your body requires an adequate amount of nutrients and calories to ensure you make a full recovery. Consuming the right foods may decrease the risk of a post-op infection, speed up the healing process, and increase your energy and strength. The most beneficial post surgery foods you can eat are loaded with vitamins and minerals.
Carbohydrates
A serious lack of energy and fatigue is common after any surgical procedure. However, if you eat the right types of carbohydrates, you can quickly restore your energy levels without causing constipation. An important type of carbohydrate is fiber. Foods such as the following are high in fiber:
- Whole grains
- Oatmeal
- Fruits
- Vegetables
- Beans
- Legumes
Fat
Eating healthy fats can improve your body’s immune response and fight off any possible germs looking to infect you. Foods that are high in healthy fat include the following:
- Nut
- Seeds
- Avocados
- Olive oil
- Coconut oil
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamins and minerals are the most important element to include in your diet. Vitamins and mineral supplements may be necessary depending on the type of surgery you had. For example, if you had weight loss surgery, the amount of food you would be able to eat is very limited, so taking a multivitamin and mineral combination is necessary.
Several vitamins and minerals are often suggested by the general surgeon to help promote healing, increase the speed of healing, and keep you healthy while you heal.
Hydration
Proper hydration is necessary for healing; it is also beneficial in helping your body absorb any post-surgical medications. You should drink 64 ounces of water (eight 8-ounce glasses) for several days after your surgery.
The type of surgery you had will determine the types of food and beverages you should or should not consume. After your surgery, your surgeon will inform you of any diet restrictions.
