Healing Your Wounds: The Science of a Post-Surgery or Injury Diet

Individuals who have experienced injuries or undergone surgery should avoid consuming certain foods to reduce the risk of infection and aid in wound healing. The wounds resulting from accidents or surgeries provide a conducive environment for viruses, bacteria, fungi, or parasites to enter the body, leading to complications such as pus, swelling, heat, bleeding, fluid leakage, and delayed wound healing.

Dr. Nguyen Anh Duy Tung from the Nutrihome Nutrition Center emphasizes the importance of a scientific diet in reducing the risk of infectious complications and promoting wound healing. Patients are advised to avoid foods that can worsen inflammatory responses, increase the risk of infection, bleeding or allergies hindering the recovery process.

Consuming hot and spicy foods can irritate mucous membranes in the body’s head and neck region or digestive system leading to complications such as esophageal reflux and stomach ulcers. Processed and greasy foods containing high levels of unhealthy fats can trigger inflammatory reactions slowing down the healing process while causing swelling.

Furthermore, undercooked or raw meat, fish and seafood increases the risk of food contamination by harmful pathogens like Salmonella and E. coli that can cause food poisoning or blood infections particularly after an injury or surgical procedure. It is essential for patients to steer clear of undercooked foods to prevent these complications. Also, food allergies can strain an individual’s immune system diverting resources away from fighting infections supporting wound healing; hence patients should avoid them entirely.

Lastly, it is recommended that patients transition gradually from liquid to solid foods consuming smaller meals throughout the day ensuring proper nutritional intake post-injury or surgery follows doctor-recommended dietary guidelines monitor wound progress while avoiding any unusual symptoms following a proper diet plan significantly contributes to healing process overall well-being.