Hernias are not particularly difficult to treat. With timely surgical intervention, most patients can return to normal life. However, post-hernia surgery diet is crucial. Improper eating habits can hinder wound healing and lead to recurrence. So what should you eat after hernia surgery?
What to Eat After Hernia Surgery?
Avoid all food and liquids, including water, for four hours post-surgery.After four hours, if gastrointestinal motility is normal, start with plain water. If no vomiting or discomfort occurs, proceed to soft, easily digestible foods. To prevent constipation and manage potential mild postoperative fever, increase water intake and consume fiber-rich foods like vegetables and fruits.
Post-hernia surgery diets should be light and avoid excessive oiliness.Hernias significantly impact health. If post-treatment symptoms like bleeding, redness, swelling, heat, pain, discharge, or high fever occur at the incision site, return to the hospital immediately. Keep children lying flat for one week after pediatric hernia surgery and avoid strenuous activity for three months. Focus on nutrition by consuming eggs, lean meats, fish, duck, and chicken.For staple foods, prioritize whole grains, which aid bowel movements. Include fresh fruits like oranges, kiwis, apples, and grapes, along with easily digestible, nutrient-rich vegetables such as tomatoes, eggplants, sword beans, and asparagus. Opt for light cooking methods when preparing vegetables.
Avoid foods that may cause constipation, abdominal bloating, or those that are excessively cold or hot. Focus on easily digestible foods to reduce intestinal burden. Follow the principle of "three more, one less": increase intake of fresh vegetables rich in coarse fiber, whole grains (whole wheat products), and fruits (like bananas), while reducing consumption of greasy, heavy meats.
What foods should be avoided after hernia surgery?
1. Fermented tofu, scallions, chili peppers, and leeks. These foods hinder wound healing and may cause inflammation.
3. Carbonated beverages. Avoid raw, cold foods and carbonated drinks. Since changes in abdominal pressure can trigger hernias, carbonated drinks should be avoided as they cause bloating and may worsen small bowel hernias.
4. Foods prone to causing constipation and abdominal bloating. Temporarily avoid mung beans, Chinese cabbage, white radish, green radish, and soybean sprouts. Minimize consumption of foods likely to cause constipation and abdominal bloating. Greasy and fried foods like potato chips, shrimp crackers, and chocolate should also be avoided. Additionally, abstain from smoking and alcohol.
Important reminder: After surgery, lie flat for 1–2 days. Avoid semi-sitting positions. Keep knees bent to prevent increased abdominal pressure. Avoid straining; ideally, do not get out of bed for bowel movements or urination. Keep the wound clean and dry for the first four days. Showering may resume after five days. On the sixth day, carefully peel off the transparent film and remove the gauze.Avoid excessive activity or prolonged standing for one and a half months post-surgery. Prevent constipation and crying, as these may hinder wound healing. Refrain from strenuous physical labor for three months to prevent recurrence.