Consuming the right kind of foods can help promote healing after surgery. Foods that you can incorporate into your diet to help you recover after an operation include:
Protein rich foods
Muscle tissue is damaged during surgery and the body needs to repair and make new muscle during the healing process. As a result, foods which provide the protein building blocks known as amino acids are vital for the recovery process. Examples of such foods include chicken, lean meats, fish, seafood, eggs, soy products and beans. High protein snacks like peanut butter sandwiches, nuts, and low fat dairy products are also vital for filling up between meals.
Carbohydrate rich foods
Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for the body. Carbohydrate rich foods are therefore important since they provide the body with the energy it needs to recover. Whole grain bread and legumes like beans, peas and lentils are some of the carbohydrate rich foods that are also rich in dietary fiber that eases the digestive process.
Vitamin C rich foods
Vitamin C rich foods are important for healing since the body uses it to make collagen, which is required for wound healing. Foods that are good sources of this vitamin include broccoli, bell peppers, cauliflower, berries and citrus fruits like oranges and tangerines.
Iron rich foods
Iron rich foods should be consumed after surgery to help the body build red cells and replace any blood that may have been lost during the operation. Red meat, poultry, seafood, dark green leafy vegetables like spinach and kale, as well as dried fruit like raisins and apricots, are some good sources of iron.
Water
Water is also vital for the healing process, since the body needs it for proper hydration. Eight glasses of water should therefore be drunk every day since it also helps the body utilize the prescribed medications.
Written by: Marian Kim, Rust Built, Marketing Services
