Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Diet After Hernia Surgery







Hernia surgery is a procedure in which a displaced section of the intestines is pushed back inside the abdominal cavity. The operation has become fairly routine, and most patients leave the hospital the day of their surgery. This simple procedure may require careful post-operational procedures to ensure a complete and safe recovery, including a healthy diet.


Post-Operational Care


Some precautions must be taken after hernia surgery. For instance, if you were on a regimen of blood-thinning medications, you may be asked to lower your intake for a few days. Intense physical activity is strongly discouraged, and pain medication may be prescribed. While these careful measures should be taken, diet is not a significant factor following hernia surgery. It may be difficult to eat solid foods for a few hours after surgery, so the day of surgery eat yogurts and other soft foods. Your diet can return to normal the day after surgery. Since surgery can often cause dehydration, drink lots of water following your operation.


Healthy diet


Although diet is not a major part of recovery from hernia surgery, use the trip to the hospital as an impetus to start eating a healthy diet. With careful eating habits, you greatly lower the risk of future hospital trips due to heart disease, liver disease, obesity, diabetes, or hypertension. Lower the amount of red meats and other fatty foods in your diet. For healthy sources of protein, try fish or tofu instead of red meat. Also eat several servings of fruits and vegetables each day. These simple steps will give you a healthy heart, greater energy, and a stronger immune system.


Exercise


Heavy lifting is not recommended after hernia surgery, as this can exacerbate your previous condition. However, regular light exercise is essential for maintaining good health, so don't shy away from physical activity following your surgery. Jogging or swimming a few times a week is a great easy way to improve your cardiovascular health and general wellness. But don't push yourself too hard; if you ever experience pain or discomfort in your surgical site, contact your physician as soon as possible.

Tags: hernia surgery, after hernia surgery, after surgery, following your, healthy diet, physical activity