After surgery dietary advice

[Mark F.]

I am scheduled to have surgery this coming Tuesday 5/13, and my wife said she wants to make sure we have the house stocked up before it happens.  Specifically she said she wanted to make sure I had plenty here to eat, but she didn't know what.  I assume there will be no restrictions because there was no mention of it in my instructions.  But did anyone who has gone through the surgery find that there are things you maybe should or shouldn't have right away?

[bfoley]

Greetings Mark -

I can only speak for myself.  There were no restrictions on foods. Post surgery EVERYTHING tasted metallic.  Even water.  It was on the half of my tongue that was the surgery side.  It lasted for several weeks.  Nothing was appealing or appetizing, so I ate only because I knew I needed to for recovery. I heard several others on here with a similar complaint.

I would advise you to hydrate and eat nutrient dense foods and avoid processed items.

I will be thinking positive thoughts for you and your surgical team!  Please keep us informed as to how you are doing.

[DanFouratt]

Mark,

I had open heart surgery as i went with radiation for this one. Not the same but still in invasion of the body. I am not a doctor so just passing along.  Yes everything tastes bad so you eat what you need to.  I was told by my dietitian that post surgery I should increase my protein intake to 1.5 grams protein per kilo of weight.  I found foods that were high in protein and low in salt (OHS) and sugars.  It is amazing how different cans of tuna have different additives. These were prepared but still healthy. I prepared some chili and soups spiked with protein powder. These were frozen and simple defrosted when I was eating.  I must admit my wife ate differently then me some days, her taste buds were still functioning.  Good Luck,  Dan

[Mark F.]

Well, thanks for the heads up on what to expect.  I will definitely go with the high protein, but not the expensive stuff since it would seem flavor probably won't be normal. 

[Jill Marie]

Hi Mark,

The most important thing I can remember about what I ate or drank after surgery was my Mom giving me a couple of cans of 7up to drink on the 6 hour drive home.  I was so thankful she gave them to me, it made the ride home a lot better as it settled my stomach.  Since my hearing nerve was severed it made my balance off and therefore made me a bit car sick.  Once home I ate pretty simple food for a while, kind of like after you've had the flu.  I hope all goes well Tuesday!  Take care of yourself!  Jill