A post-op soft food diet may be ordered by your health care provider a day or two after surgery. A soft diet is a gentle way to introduce foods back into your digestive system. The digestive system tolerates softer foods better after surgery so cramps and abdominal pain can be avoided. Or, if you had head, neck or throat surgery, a soft diet is easier to swallow. All the daily nutrients can be obtained through a soft diet.
Grains
It is important to eat whole grains in the diet every day. These foods include brown rice, oatmeal and whole wheat pasta. When these items are cooked per package instructions, they become a soft, moist consistency, appropriate for a soft diet. The recommended daily intake of grains for adults is 6 oz. For instance, 1 cup of cooked oatmeal is equivalent to 2 oz. grain.
Fruits and Vegetables
Many fruits and vegetables can be cooked or prepared into a soft consistency. Also, fruit and vegetable juices, such as V-8, count as two servings of fruits and vegetables. The recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables for adults is approximately 2 cups each. A peeled banana is already in a soft form, as are strawberries and blueberries. Many vegetable varieties can be mashed into a soft form, such as potatoes, butternut squash and carrots.
Soft Meats and Beans
The meat, fish and bean group provide needed daily protein. Many parts of the body, such as the muscles, tissues and organs, need protein every day. Protein provides the building blocks for energy, repair and growth. Adults need 5 to 6 oz. of this group a day. Cooked fish and beans are a better choices for soft foods. If you choose red meats or poultry, be sure to chop them finely.
Dairy Products
Most dairy products are considered soft foods. This group includes milk, ice cream, cheese and yogurt. Dairy provides needed calcium and vitamin D to maintain and promote bone health. It also contains potassium needed for electrical activity of the cells. All these nutrients will support the healing process after surgery. Adults need 3 cups of dairy every day.
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