Tonsils are prone to infection and swelling, often leading to bouts of tonsillitis. If you suffer from frequent infections, a tonsillectomy often is recommended. The surgery removes the lymph tissue and is often combined with an adenoidectomy. Eating the correct foods after a tonsillectomy is critical to proper recovery. Some food will irritate your throat, cause pain and may even cause bleeding. Choose the right foods to hasten your recovery and ease throat pain associated with the surgery.
After Surgery
Directly after a tonsillectomy, several hours are necessary for the general anesthesia to wear off. During this time, no liquids or foods are permitted, to prevent choking. If oral medication must be swallowed, small sips of water are permitted. Once your medical professional advises you're ready for liquids, begin taking frequent sips of clear liquids. Water, apple juice, ice chips and popsicles are ideal. Fluids are encouraged to avoid dehydration. Swallowing liquids will be painful, but the more you use your throat after surgery, the faster your recovery will be. Cool or room-temperature beverages are suggested. Very cold or warm drinks may cause additional pain. Aim to drink 4 oz. of fluid every 30 minutes, suggests Associates in Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery.
Fluids
Add additional beverages when you are ready. People may suffer from nausea for about 24 hours after a tonsillectomy. If you are free of nausea, other juices, teas and soda are permitted. Chicken or vegetable broth is ideal. Do not drink milk or other dairy beverages until 24 hours after surgery. Acidic juices such as pineapple, tomato and orange juice should be avoided. These juices will cause additional irritation to the surgical site. Sip fluids consistently throughout the day instead of gulping large amounts.
Soft Foods
Begin with soft, bland foods when reintroducing foods to your postoperative diet. Most people wait about 24 hours to begin eating, but each person is different. Initially, applesauce, pudding or ice cream is ideal. Gravitate toward additional foods with more nutritional value, including scrambled eggs, plain rice and pasta or steamed fruits and vegetables. Make sandwiches using tuna, chicken or egg salad. Enjoy stews and casseroles for lunch and dinner. Do not add heavy spices or seasonings to food.
Solid Foods
Begin eating solid foods as soon as possible after your tonsillectomy, suggests Better Health Channel. Sticking to a soft diet may lead to malnutrition and weight loss. Slowly add meats such as shredded chicken, ground sausage and fish to your diet. Fruits and vegetables will provide ample nutrition. Take your time when eating solid foods to decrease throat irritation. Once you are eating solid food on a regular basis, you will most likely regain any weight you may have lost after the tonsillectomy.
Additional Insight
After a tonsillectomy, your throat may be sore for two to three weeks. Prior to eating, take acetaminophen to decrease your throat pain. The Cleveland Clinic suggests chewing gum throughout the day to decrease muscle spasms. Avoid hard, crunchy foods that may scratch the surgical site and cause bleeding. These foods include nuts, chips, pretzels, pizza and cookies. If you notice any type of bleeding, contact a medical professional as soon as possible.
