So, you’ve scheduled your tummy tuck procedure with Dr. Peterson and you’re getting everything ready for your recovery. Maybe you’ve got your work duties covered, arranged for child care and got help for household chores, but have you thought about what you’re going to eat right after your procedure? Since your recovery will require you to rest and be in bed after your surgery, you should adjust your diet during your downtime.
Here are some recommendations for meals and snacks during your recovery:
Drink Plenty of Water. Staying hydrated after the tummy tuck or any plastic surgery procedure can help get rid of excess fluid and encourages tissues to heal.
Eat Plenty of Protein. Proteins are an essential part of your recovery, so be sure to include lean meats such as chicken and turkey, beans, eggs or egg whites, yogurt, and low-fat cheese.
Take Your Vitamins. Vitamins are necessary for your recovery because they bolster your immune system to fight off infection. Choose foods high in vitamin A, such as eggs, carrots, sweet potatoes and broccoli. Beef liver is also high in vitamin A. Foods that contain vitamin C include citrus fruits and strawberries, spinach, kale, and tomatoes. Add in some zinc from grains, nuts and meats to help your body build the new cells you need during your recovery and downtime.
Here are foods to avoid after having a tummy tuck:
Sugary Beverages. Sugary beverages contain calories you don’t need and cannot work off through exercise during your recovery (remember, you are on restricted activity for at least six weeks or until cleared by Dr. Peterson!). Carbonated beverages can also create painful gas and bloat you will want to avoid during recovery.
Salt. While you may be tempted to snack on chips while you’re resting and recovering, doing so will also make your body retain fluids, which can delay healing and cause you pain.
Alcohol. Avoiding alcohol until you are completely healed is also in your best interest. This is because alcohol negatively affects healing, thins your blood and can cause dangerous interactions with pain medication.
Have more questions about healing after your tummy tuck? Call Dr. Peterson today at 785-234-9000 for more information.
