8 Amazing Foods That Speed up Post-Operative Rehabilitation

The success of any surgery depends on proper rehabilitation as well as on the skills of your doctor. Post-operative rehabilitation may include certain exercises, different medical procedures, and proper nutrition. Foods you eat to speed up or delay your post-operative recovery. It is very important to eat foods that promote healing processes and don’t interfere with normal rehabilitation.

Here are eight awesome products that may boost the healing properties of your body and speed up recovery.

1. Vegetables

Vegetables contain a large dose of nutrients and vitamins that may boost the healing properties of your body. Include more carrots, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and Brussels sprouts in your diet. These vegetables are a perfect source of carbohydrates, which relieve fatigue after the surgery. Carbohydrates provide your brain with energy and prevent muscle from breaking down.

One more great benefit of vegetables is the high content of fiber. This may reduce the risk of constipation which is a common side effect of certain pain medications and antibiotics.

2. Berries

Berries are the perfect food for post-operative rehabilitation for several reasons. First of all, berries are high in antioxidants. They help your body repair after damage and reduce the risk of inflammation. Second of all, most berries are a good source of vitamin C. This vitamin boosts the production of collagen, meaning your incision site will heal faster.

It is recommended to include more grapes, pomegranates, raspberries, blackberries, and goji berries in your post-operative diet.

3. Dark leafy greens

Dark leafy greens are vitally important during post-operative rehabilitation. Leafy greens will give you a healthy dose of vitamins A, C, E, and K. These vitamins prevent damage that causes free radicals and reduce the risk of inflammation of the surgery site. Dark leafy greens are also filled with B-complex vitamins. This vitamin helps boost energy levels and relieve post-operative anxiety.

Add kale, spinach, mustard greens, and romaine lettuce to your everyday meals.

4. Healthy fats

Healthy fats must become your best friend during your post-operative rehabilitation. They help your body absorb the necessary vitamins and nutrients from the foods you eat. Healthy fats are also necessary for a healthy immune system. A strong immune system is very important in the postoperative period. This diminishes the risk of infection that may cause complications.

The best sources of healthy fats are olive oil, avocado, nuts, wild fish, and coconut oil.

5. Eggs

Eggs are good food for people who undergo surgery because of the high content of protein. If you don’t get enough protein, some of it will go toward providing your body with energy, instead of healing your wound. Apart from protein, eggs are a good source of folic acid, vitamins (A, E, K, B complex), and zinc. All these nutrients promote a quick postoperative recovery and decrease the risk of inflammation.

6. Whole grains

Whole grains are another food that will provide your body with carbohydrates and prevent your muscles from breaking down. Whole grains are a perfect source of fiber that promotes proper digestion. This food can fill your brain and body with the necessary energy and boost the healing process.

You may add more whole wheat or rye sourdough bread, oats, wild rice, and quinoa to your diet.

7. Probiotics

Probiotics are healthy bacteria that promote good digestion and inhibit the growth of germs and infections. These properties are very important as after surgery you are especially vulnerable to germs and infections. After taking certain medications, antibiotics, and anesthesia you are also more prone to digestive problems like constipation and nausea. A healthy portion of probiotics may help you regulate your digestion and decrease the risk of digestive disorders.

8. Water

Water is extremely important after surgery. It is very important to maintain good hydration in the body to recover faster. Drinking plenty of water will also decrease the risk of constipation during the recovery period. Depending on the type of your surgery, the doctor may recommend your drink even more than 0.5 gallons of water per day.

Apart from simple clear water, you may also drink water flavored with lime or lemon and lukewarm herbal teas.