Post-Operative Diet for Uterine Fibroid Surgery: What Should You Eat?
After undergoing surgery for uterine fibroids, it is essential to follow a proper diet that aids in recovery. For elderly or weak patients, it is advisable to consume more liquid and semi-liquid foods to facilitate digestion. Options such as lotus root powder and orange juice can be beneficial. Additionally, soups made with lean meats or fresh fish provide essential nutrients while enhancing appetite, contributing to a quicker recovery.
If a patient has poor nutritional status and their regular diet isn't sufficient, they might consider taking high-energy nutritional supplements to help combat malnutrition. It is important to avoid eating too early. Generally, patients can start with small amounts of water after passing gas. If there are no complications, they can then gradually transition to liquid foods such as rice porridge or vegetable soup, followed by soft foods, and eventually return to a normal diet.
Recommended Foods for Patients with Uterine Fibroids
Women dealing with uterine fibroids are encouraged to eat light and nutritious foods during treatment. Incorporating plenty of fruits and vegetables can aid overall health and support recovery.
Post-Operative Diet for Uterine Fibroid Surgery: Foods to Avoid
Stimulating Foods
Patients should steer clear of spicy foods and alcoholic beverages. Spicy foods can trigger hormonal imbalances, which may adversely affect the body's endocrine system. Alcohol, on the other hand, can increase blood flow and create excessive energy, potentially complicating emotional stability for those with uterine fibroids.
Frequent Trigger Foods
Additionally, certain foods should be avoided due to their tendency to exacerbate symptoms. These include lamb, shrimp, crab, eel, salted fish, and black fish. The high fat content in these meats can contribute to weight gain, which may increase the likelihood of developing uterine fibroids.
Foods High in Hormones
Seafood should also be limited, as it often contains high levels of hormones that could worsen uterine fibroid conditions. Furthermore, patients should avoid foods that nourish blood and energy, such as longan, red dates, ejiao, and royal jelly. These foods may elevate estrogen levels, which can stimulate fibroid growth.
Final Advice for Quick Recovery
To ensure a swift recovery after uterine fibroid surgery, patients should not rush their eating schedule. For non-digestive surgeries, it's typically suggested that women consume nutrient-dense, easily digestible foods about six hours post-surgery. Foods rich in protein, vitamins, and iron, such as fish broth, grapes, cherries, and various vegetables, should be prioritized. However, it is wise to limit overly rich supplements, as they may do more harm than good.