Surgery is commonly indicated for those with a hiatal hernia, a condition in which the upper portion of the stomach protrudes through the esophageal hiatus, or a hole in the diaphragm, and into the chest. Hiatal hernias are often caused by weakened muscles around the hiatus. The surgery pulls the stomach into the abdomen and tightens the diaphragm muscles. After surgery, you will be on a restricted diet that progresses to a soft diet over the course of a few weeks.
Clear Liquid Diet
For the first two weeks after surgery, you will be on a clear liquid diet to help your body get used to food and keep you hydrated. You will start drinking liquids the day after surgery. You will be allowed any liquids that you can see through, such as clear fruit juices, broth, coffee, tea, water and fruit ices. In addition, you may be allowed flavored gelatin and clear hard candy. Avoid very cold liquids, solid foods, thick liquids, gum and carbonated beverages.
Diet Progression
After two weeks, you may eat any foods that you can pour. These foods include nectars, vegetable juice, strained cream soups and cooked cereals, farina, custards, ice cream, sherbet, pudding, milk, milkshakes and yogurt. Continue to avoid solid foods, gum and carbonated beverages.
Soft Diet
After another two weeks, you can progress to a soft diet, which includes mushy foods that are easier to eat than solid foods. You may add mashed potatoes, ground chicken, fish, small pasta, soups, overcooked vegetables and refried beans, canned and stewed fruits, apple sauce and scrambled eggs to your diet. Avoid steak, lamb and pork chops, hamburgers, sandwiches, raw and stringy vegetables, nuts and seeds.
General Guidelines For Recovery
After a soft diet, you can resume normal eating, but small, frequent meals are recommended. At the beginning, eat no more than 1 cup of food. Avoid alcohol and trigger foods like chocolate, onions, spicy foods and citrus and acidic fruits and vegetables. These may cause heartburn. Limit fatty foods, as well. Do not use straws, as you may suck air into your stomach.
Member Comments