If you are looking at a healthy recovery after having an Podiatrist surgery like knee replacement or even a fracture, then along with ensuring plenty of rest and proper wound care you must also factor in good nutrition.
An Podiatrist surgery can place immense stress on the body as the body’s metabolism is elevated when it is in the repair mode. A well-balanced and nutritious diet becomes indispensable for proper tissue growth, repair and speedy recovery.
Podiatrist Dallas, Tx mentioned below are the nutrients that act as building blocks during the post-operative period and aids a quick and healthy recovery. Most of these nutrients can be easily obtained from food that we regularly consume. Let’s dive in to know more about these bone-healing foods that can help you recover faster.
Fiber
Pain medications that are prescribed after the surgery can lead to digestive problems like constipation. As such fiber-rich foods along with drinking plenty of water can have a laxative affect that can help with constipation. Fruits and juices are considered to be most effective in this case.
Constipation is a common risk after surgery. This can be caused by a lack of activity and pain medication. Fiber is a necessary bulking agent that keeps your system moving.
Constipation is more than just annoying after Ankle surgery, it can actually increase pain and the chances of returning to the hospital during the recovery period.
Rather than adding a fiber supplement to your day, such as psyllium husks, consider adding high fiber foods to your diet and obtaining fiber in a more natural way.
Supplementing is not a bad idea, but fiber from food tends to work better to prevent constipation when taken with ample water.
High-Fiber Foods
Enjoy these high-fiber foods:
· Whole grain bread: Look for breads that use whole grains and are darker in color. White bread is typically too refined to be a good source of fiber.
· Whole grains: This would include corn, oatmeal, and other grains.
· Fruits: Fresh fruit is an excellent source of vitamins and fiber.
· Vegetables: Vegetables are an excellent source of fiber and can be purchased fresh or frozen.
· Cereal: Not all cereal has a high-fiber content. Check the label to avoid sugary or low-fiber cereal. Look for cereal with fiber in the name, or stick with old-fashioned breakfast foods, such as oatmeal or cream of wheat.
Carbohydrates.
Fatigue is common following any surgical procedure, but eating the right kinds of carbs can help restore your energy levels. Get carbs from high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits and veggies, and beans and legumes. These foods will boost energy levels without causing constipation.
Iron
If you have iron-deficiency anemia when you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells you may heal more slowly after a fracture. Iron helps your body make collagen to rebuild bone. It also plays a part in getting oxygen into your bones to help them heal.
Fat.
Healthy fats from olive oil, avocados, coconut oil, nuts and seeds will improve immune response and aid the body’s absorption of vitamins. Fat will also help increase energy levels after surgery.
Vitamins and Minerals.
Perhaps the most important nutrients in your post-surgery diet are vitamins and minerals.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D works with Calcium to promote bone health as it helps our body absorb and utilize calcium.
Sun is the best source of Vitamin D but our body’s ability to make Vitamin D depends on time of year, time of day and where we live.
A small amount of Vitamin D can also be obtained from food sources like fatty fish, salmon, tuna, egg, cheese or fortified milk.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C boasts of antioxidant properties and hence is an integral part of our body’s immune function, especially would healing. It can neutralize the effects of free radicals that promote disease.
Vitamin C also helps in collagen synthesis, which is required for repairing tendons, ligaments and healing other surgical wounds.
Citrus fruits like orange, strawberries, kiwi, and lemon; and vegetables including broccoli, bell peppers, Brussels sprouts etc are a good source of Vitamin C. The daily recommended allowance of Vitamin C during post-operative period is 500 mg as the body requires more of this vitamin for better healing.
Zinc
Zinc along with Vitamin C and protein can substantially speed up the recovery after an Podiatrist surgery. Deficiency of the same is associated with poor bone health.
Zinc has been shown to aid wound healing, unite bone fractures and prevent osteoporosis due to its role in collagen synthesis. This mineral is mostly found in animal foods. Oysters, meat, dark poultry etc are considered to be the best non-vegetarian sources of protein. On the other hand, fortified cereals, dairy, beans, nuts etc also provide moderate amount of zinc.
The foods you should and shouldn’t eat can vary depending on the type of surgery and any medications you may be on. Be sure to talk with Podiatrist about your specific post-surgery dietary requirements.
