A hiatal hernia develops when the upper portion of your stomach pushes upward through a hole in your diaphragm. Surgery can correct this condition by pulling the stomach down and tightening the surrounding muscles. Following surgery, your doctor will put you on a special diet in which you will progress from consuming liquids to soft foods in four stages. Consult your doctor for more information about the post-surgery diet.
Stage 1
Swallowing may be more difficult due to swelling around the esophagus, so a liquid diet is advised for the days immediately following surgery. This consists of any fluids or semi-fluids that are smooth and free of lumps, such as water, juice, milk, tea, coffee, strained soups, ice cream, custard, yogurt and gravy. Sip up to 1 cup of these fluids at a time and avoid a straw since this may suck air into your stomach.
Stage 2
You can progress to stage 2 as soon as you feel comfortable swallowing. For the first week or two after surgery, eat mashed and very soft foods like porridge and hot cereals, soft fruit, well-cooked vegetables, soft pasta, pureed meats and chicken, fish and eggs. A blender will help puree these foods to a thin and soft consistency.
Stage 3
If you feel comfortable, you can advance to stage 3, which lasts for another 1 to 2 weeks in which light foods are added. These include salads, toast, chicken and tender meats. You can also consume alcohol in small quantities. Chew all foods well.
Stage 4
In this last stage, gradually add firmer and solid foods to return to normal eating. Continue to chew well and eat smaller, more frequent meals and snacks. If you find that any food gets stuck, stop eating and drink water to wash it down. Rice, bread, cake and grilled and fried meat may be harder to eat and should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. Also avoid carbonated beverages and spicy foods.
Dietary Changes
Dietary changes may be beneficial for the period after surgery. In general, eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day rather than large meals. Avoid alcohol, spicy foods, citrus fruits and tomatoes, which may exacerbate heartburn, and limit fatty foods. Chew foods well and choose moist foods that are easier to eat.
