As for the post-surgery period, it is quite sensitive, and the body requires a proper diet to recover its strength and gain improved health. A proper diet containing all the nutrients is also helpful for increasing the rate of healing and avoiding infections and other related issues. Indian food normally contains a variety of ingredients and spices hence many foods can be taken after the surgery is done. Here are ten healthy Indian foods that can aid in post-surgery recovery:
10 Healthy Foods for Post-Surgery Recovery
1. Moong Dal (Green Gram)
Moong dal is popular in Indian homes and is very suitable for persons who are recovering after surgery. It has proteins that aid in tissue and muscle regeneration. The high fibre content in moong dal helps to ease bowel movements and must be specially taken after surgery, the post-operation medications and immobility of the patient often lead to constipation. Moreover, moong dal has a low amount of fat and is light on the stomach; therefore, it does not cause any sort of digestive turmoil.
2. Khichdi
Khichdi – a dish containing rice and legumes, is then suggested to people recovering from surgery. It indeed is a balanced diet and able to supply the carbohydrates, protein, vitamins and minerals needed by the body. Due to the positioning of ingredients in khichdi, it can be easily digested, in addition, turmeric powder and cumin seeds have medicinal values for improving the healing process.
3. Curd (Yogurt)
Curd belongs to the group of foods containing live microbes that are beneficial for digestion and thus can help counteract the negative effects of antibiotics and pain killers which are usually administered after the operation. It assists in re-establishing the normal flora in the gut involved in digestion and fighting off infections. Curd is also a rich source of proteins and calcium that are vital for the body’s framework and the bones.
4. Turmeric
This spice used in most of the foods found in Indian cuisine has been identified to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds. It added that curcumin, which is responsible for the yellow pigment of turmeric, helps in the reduction of inflammation and pain hence enhancing the healing process. The consumption of turmeric helps in the process of wound healing and prevents the formation of infections. You can mix it with soups, stews or as a hot drink popularly known as golden milk.
5. Spinach
It is an intimate of iron, calcium, acids, vitamins A, C, and K as well as folates. Because of its richness in iron, Vitamin B12, folate and copper, these nutrients are important in the production of red blood cells, the formation of bones and the immune system of the body. A component in spinach contains fiber and thus facilitates digestion and the antioxidants in spinach assist in reducing inflammation and promote repair.
6. Ginger
Ginger is another featured food product in India, which works as an anti-inflammatory and anti-oxide agent. This can be useful in decreasing the incidence of nausea, which is often associated with anaesthetic drugs and analgesics. Cleansing properties Ginger also helps in digestion and can be taken in the form of teas, soups or extra dishes for taste and other nutritional values.
7. Coconut Water
Natural coconut water, which has high electrolyte content, can be useful in replenishing the lost electrolytes and in helping the patient meet his/her daily hydration requirement, especially after the surgery. It is a calorie resource as well as potassium, magnesium and calcium and is good for muscle functioning and recovery. The variety of coconut benefits that we get with regular use is that it helps in proper digestion and also helps to prevent dehydration.
8. Paneer (Cottage Cheese)
Paneer contains protein which aids in the repair of muscles and calcium for strengthening of our bones. It can also be chewed comfortably and can be combined with several meals such as curry, a salad, or barbequed to be taken as a snack. The moment their cells and tissues are destroyed, the protein present in the paneer assists in regenerating them, hence rapid recovery.
9. Amla (Indian Gooseberry)
Amla contains lots of vitamin C which is important in increasing immunity and collagen synthesis and therefore acts as a great assist for the body in wound healing. They assist in lowering inflammation and oxidative stress which is due to the presence of antioxidants. The product can be consumed in the form of juice, or powder or added to the chutneys and pickles.
10. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds constitute a superfood that contains omega-3 fatty acids, protein, fibre and antioxidants. the nutrients are helpful to our body’s health, help in reducing inflammation and assist in the process of healing. They can be mixed with, smoothies, and yogurt or even be used in salads as a nutritional enhancement. In addition to this, they have high dietary fibre content which helps in digestion nothing hindering constipation.
Conclusion
Nutrition also has its part to play particularly during the early days of recovery after the surgery. The following ten healthy Indian foods should be added to the diet to meet the need for nutrients presented by the patient, as for the need to reduce inflammation and build strength. It is always wise to seek advice from a doctor or a nutritionist before changing your feeding habits especially if you have undergone surgery. Proper nourishment enhances the recovery methods of the body and makes the recovery process easier and faster.
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