Diet After Orthopedic Surgery

You may require orthopedic surgery for several reasons -- including bone fractures, joint replacements and to repair damaged, torn or defective bones, muscles, ligaments, cartilage and tendons. Orthopedic surgery can keep you off your feet and living a sedentary lifestyle for weeks or months. As a result, it is important to follow a diet to maintain your health and avoid weight gain during your recovery.

Post-Operative Diet

Side effects following anesthesia include nausea, vomiting and loss of appetite. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons reports that it is not uncommon to experience a loss of appetite for several weeks following your surgery. Immediately following your surgery, you are given liquids and possibly some crackers. If your orthopedic surgery is outpatient, you will likely have to keep clear liquids or crackers down prior to your discharge. If you are spending the night or a few days in the hospital, you may start out on a liquid diet and progress to solid foods as you can handle them.

Well-Balanced Diet

Maintaining a well-balanced diet is important in your recovery from orthopedic surgery. A well-balanced diet can provide your body with the essential vitamins and nutrients it needs to heal, as well as function, properly on a daily basis. Maintaining a well-balanced diet can also help in weight control, which is important since you will likely have limitations on physical activity until otherwise indicated by your physician. A well-balanced diet should include eight glasses of water per day to help nourish your muscles and maintain your strength. The National Academy of Sports Medicine indicates a well-balanced diet should include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and low-fat dairy products. Avoid foods that are high in fat and sugar content as you recover.

Iron Supplement

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends taking an iron supplement to help promote healing from orthopedic surgery. An iron supplement can help you overcome anemia. Anemia is a common side effect of losing blood during surgery -- this is especially common during joint replacement surgery. Your body needs iron to form hemoglobin, which is the protein that permits red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body. The proper flow of oxygen can help promote healing. Talk to your doctor about the appropriate dosage of an iron supplement for you.

Considerations

Orthopedic surgery can make standing for long periods of time or preparing foods difficult. If you do not have someone available to help you prepare healthy meals, plan ahead of time. Stock up on healthy, well-balanced snacks that are quick and easy to prepare. Purchase yogurt, whole grain pretzels, fruit and crackers. Prepare and freeze meals ahead of time so that all you will need to do is reheat them. You can also opt to stock up on prepared meals that are healthy and meals you enjoy.