A hernia is a condition in which tissue protrudes through an opening in the muscles. It commonly occurs in the groin and navel areas and may happen at a previous surgical incision site. Surgical treatment repairs the hernia using mesh or by closing the opening in the muscle. Your diet after surgery will depend on various factors, including feelings of nausea. Consult your doctor for specific diet recommendations after surgery.
Liquid Diet
Immediately following surgery, you may feel nauseous or not have much of an appetite. As a result, your doctor will typically have you follow a clear liquid diet. You will be able to drink small amounts of clear liquid, including tea, broth, or gelatin. If you do not feel nauseous, you can progress quickly to a full liquid diet.
Regular Diet
As your stomach feels better, appetite increases, and nausea subsides after hernia surgery, you can slowly add solid foods to your diet. The timing of this transition varies. There are no dietary restrictions, and you can eat regular foods as tolerated.
High-Fiber Foods
Incorporate high-fiber foods into your diet to keep food moving through your intestine. Fiber helps your digestive tract's functioning. Raspberries, pears, whole-wheat pasta, cooked barley, beans, broccoli and artichoke are good sources of fiber.
Fluid Recommendations
The American College of Physicians and Surgeons recommends drinking eight to 10 glasses of fluids each day after your surgery. This helps you stay hydrated and prevents constipation by keeping the stool moving through your intestine.
References
- The American College of Physicians and Surgeons Division of Education: Inguinal/Femoral Hernia
- University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Medicine and Public Health; Home Care After Laparoscopic Hernia Repair; February 2010
- Virginia Surgery Associates P.C.: Hernia Repair
- The Ohio State University Medical Center: Home Care After Hernia Repair
- MayoClinic.com; High-Fiber Foods; November 2009
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