How To Keep Up With The Nutritional Requirements After Surgery

How To Keep Up With The Nutritional Requirements After Surgery

Accident statistics in Snellville have increased over a while because of an increase in population and adverse driving conditions. Car accidents can be of two types: major and minor. In case of a minor accident, your doctor will prescribe bed rest for a few days, while major accidents result in complicated injuries like multiple fractures, traumatic brain injuries, and much more. 

Complex injuries require immediate medical attention and care. Most patients even have to spend days in the hospital prior to recovery. Additionally, there is a possibility that you may need surgery after the accident to heal correctly. Doctors work side-by-side with patients to prepare them for a successful post-accident surgery until the patients recover completely. 

Symptoms of Car Accident Surgery 

Been in a successful surgery? Patients suffer from a few symptoms that require care and precaution. Here are the most prominent causes of discomfort that people suffer after surgery: 

  • Infected wounds 
  • Fever leading to pneumonia 
  • Decreased mobility and imbalance 
  • Weight changes 
  • Loss of energy and constant fatigue 

However, you need to understand that most of these symptoms are common in the initial days. The overall purpose of an operation is to improve the quality of life hampered after an accident. 

Importance of Hydration in Recovery from Car Accident 

Most patients neglect this, but one of the most neglected things after the surgery is staying hydrated. For some people, it is a pain from injuries that completely suppresses your appetite, while for others, it is the fear of using bathroom facilities in pain that prevents them from drinking sufficient liquids. However, you must remember that more than half of your body is made of water and to maintain an adequate hydration level, drinking a higher level of fluid is mandatory. Following are some of the most common but healthy beverages. 

  • Green tea 
  • Herbal tea 
  • Fresh fruit juices (watch the sugar content)
  • Plain water

Other than this, you can also increase intake of beverage based foods like 

  • Soups 
  • Broth 
  • Chowder

Impact of Nutrition and Food 

Surgery can literally drain your body and deplete stamina. You can provide essential nutrients to your body to recover and manage any challenges that it may face after the surgery. Your doctor is going to assess the condition and involve a dietician if necessary. 

To provide your body with sufficient energy and nutrition to fight infections, promote healing, rebuild stamina and increase power. Other than helping you in recovery, they are really delicious and can become a part of your daily meals. 

Berries and Foods Loaded with Antioxidants 

Berries are loaded with antioxidants which are a nutritional powerhouse that can repair any kind of damage in your body. They are an excellent source of vitamin C which is really helpful in building collagen, and soft tissue, which helps significantly in healing internal wounds and post-surgery cuts. Highly recommended after surgery, they are present in different kinds of fruits. Here are the most common sources of antioxidants:

  • Grapes 
  • Blueberries 
  • Strawberries 
  • Raspberries 
  • Pomegranate 
  • Goji Berries
  • Blackberries

Vitamin Loaded Fruits 

Healthy foods don’t necessarily have to be boring, thanks to colorful and nutritional fruits. It is very vital after surgery to consume foods that resemble the colors of the rainbow. Fill a dish with brightly colored fruits and vegetables to obtain a healthy dose of vitamin A, C, carbs, fiber, antioxidants, and the nutritious calories that your body requires to recover. Other than this, they are also a great source of fiber. Ask your loved ones to bring a fruit basket filled with gorgeous delectables like: 

  • Apples 
  • Peaches 
  • Watermelon 
  • Mango 
  • Grapefruits 
  • Oranges 
  • Guava 
  • Pears 
  • Bananas

Vegetables 

Including fresh vegetables in your diet can really help you recover from the after-effects of surgery. They are a source of healthy carbs and minerals that provide you with sufficient energy that enables you to eliminate symptoms like fatigue and constant headaches. Loaded with vitamin A and C, they also have a high fiber content that reduces the side effects of medication on the digestive system. Following are the most beneficial vegetables that can help you increase mobility while strengthening your digestive system against the post-surgery drug. 

  • Carrots 
  • Broccoli 
  • Cauliflower 
  • Cabbage 
  • Potatoes
  • Kale 
  • Spinach 
  • Romaine Lettuce 

Healthy Fats

Unlike processed oily foods, healthy fats are your friends. Following the surgery, healthy fats are delectable treats that can provide you with energy to last throughout the day. Other than providing you with sufficient power, they also strengthen the immune system while reducing the chances of any post-accident infection. Fats also help you heal the wounds faster and reduce the appearance of scars. Since nuts are a healthy snacking option, they are highly recommended by a car accident chiropractor in Snellville as an alternative to your processed snacks. Here is a list of some impeccable sources of healthy fats:

  • Avocados 
  • Nuts 
  • Seeds 
  • Olive oil

Meats and Poultry 

Older people who get involved in a car accident may need more protein intake as compared to younger victims. Protein will repair the damaged and manipulated muscles of your body by providing you with sufficient amino acids. Other than repairing any kind of muscle damage, amino acids also regenerate tissues and speed the wound recovery. Your body needs iron to beat the fatigue and gain some energy as it creates new blood cells. If you have a hard time chewing, try protein replacement bars or shakes as prescribed by the doctor. Following are the best sources of protein and meats. 

  • Poultry 
  • Beef 
  • Seafood 
  • Lentils and beans 
  • Eggs
  • Nuts

Whole Grains 

Whole grains are a great source of energy that can definitely boost your brainpower after surgery. As discussed above, your digestive system is probably disturbed by medication, so whole grains will provide your body with an added dose of fiber. Most accident victims prefer taking alternate care from physical therapists and chiropractors. Even the most minor injuries require the services of alternate care professionals. For instance, on your whiplash chiropractor in Snellville, your doctor may perform specific procedures that may drain your energy by releasing pressure from the body. This is why providing your body with adequate power is mandatory. Ask your family members to add a few extra doses of: 

  • Steel-cut oats 
  • Wheat 
  • Multi-grain bread 

Probiotics 

Probiotics are the happy, healthy bacteria that your body requires to digest food, maintain mental equilibrium, and fight off all the viruses and illnesses that might occur during a hospital stay or surgery. Surgery may be challenging on your body because anesthesia, antibiotics, and pain relievers disrupt the delicate equilibrium in your stomach, causing digestive distress, constipation, and nausea. A good dosage of probiotics can aid with system regulation. Here are some really common sources of probiotics. 

  • Yogurt 
  • Sauerkraut

Conclusion 

Major car accidents are really complex as they may result in surgical procedures. Surgery can be a complex process involving several wounds. However, with proper medication and nutrition, a person can get better much quicker. Add fresh fruits, healthy fats like nuts and olive oil, probiotics, unprocessed carbs, and protein to your diet. Older people may require more nutrition advice as compared to younger accident victims. Moreover, you need to keep in mind the post-surgical hydration requirement. Drink healthy fluids like green tea or fresh juices to maintain appropriate glucose levels. Fluid-based foods like soups and fruits like soups can help you keep up with the hydration requirements.