in Health / Nutrition (submitted 2012-06-06)
Sometimes, we have to undergo orthopaedic surgery to repair damages to our body. Damages are often torn ligaments, fractured bones or tendon repairs. Orthopaedic surgery places immense stress on the body and during the repair period, the body’s metabolism rate is extremely high and eating the right foods after surgery is very important and can help speed up the recovery process. Recovery is not simply about getting plenty of rest and ensuring proper wound care. A well-balanced and healthy diet filled with nutrients is essential and can not only help to boost the immune system, but also regain body strength.
Low residue diet
After surgery, it is good to go on a low residue diet that consists of low fiber food such as fruits, vegetables, tender meat and eggs to aid in easy digestion which will help slow down bowel movement. This is strongly advised if the surgery involves the bowel as a low residue diet will put less stress on the bowels, allowing faster and timely healing.
Protein rich diet
A protein rich diet is required to help the body build and repair muscle and organs, especially important after orthopedic surgery. A deficiency in protein can possibly cause fatigue and muscle wasting. Protein acts as the “fuel” for body repair and patients are recommended to consume between two to three servings of fish, chicken, pork, beef, eggs, cheese and milk during the initial phase of healing. Protein shakes are also an excellent way to add more protein without much preparation.
Iron
Iron is able to help prevent a common side effect after surgery – anemia. Our body requires regular supply of iron to help in the formation of hemoglobin that allows red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout our body. An unobstructed and constant flow of oxygen throughout the body is able to aid and promote healing. Dried apricots, liver, caviar, sesame seeds, clams and oysters are excellent sources of iron.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A helps in tissue repair and is beneficial to the healing process. It also encourages new skin growth and new tissue generation. Vitamin A can be found in liver, fish oil and cheese. Vitamin A also increases the body resistance to infection.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C helps to stimulate production of collagen and this will help heal wounds. Vitamin C also helps in the production of elastin which is important to allow wound to stretch without causing further damages. Vitamin C can be found in fruits such as lemon and oranges as well as peppers, cabbages, cauliflower and potatoes.
Post surgery recovery food is an extremely important part of the healing process and having a diet rich in nutrients is able to not only speed up the recovery process, but also help build up the immune system that is weakened by surgery.
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Article source: http://goarticles.com/article/Food-That-You-Should-Eat-After-Orthopaedic-Surgery/6593859/
