Smiling, talking and eating with a split lip is painful and could make the injury even more irritated. A split lip isn't usually a serious injury and if your doctor approves, you can allow it to heal on its own. Eating foods that will not irritate your split lip will make the pain more bearable while the injury heals.
Ice Pops
Because an ice pop is so cold, it numbs the split lip, reduces swelling and provides a sweet treat. Opt for 100-percent fruit ice pops with mild flavors. Stay away from flavors such as lemon and lime, which may be too acidic and make the cut on your lip sting. Eat ice pops throughout the day to numb the area as needed. If you don't have ice pops handy, suck on ice cubes to reduce the pain and swelling.
Dairy Products
Dairy products that are mild, cool and soft should not sting or exacerbate your lip injury. Foods such as cottage cheese, yogurt, milk, and mild cheeses are high in protein, so they are a nutritious choice if you are unable to eat as much food as you normally do. Avoid sharp cheeses, such as cheddar, Parmesan or Asiago. Consider meal replacement shakes if your lips are too painful to get adequate nutrition with soft foods.
Cooked Vegetables
Steamed vegetables that are cooked until they are soft, then cooled to room temperature are mild enough to eat with a split lip. If steamed vegetables are too painful, opt for pureed or mashed vegetables, such as pureed cauliflower, mashed potatoes or mashed sweet potatoes. Add a dollop of sour cream to your portion to add protein to the meal if you are unable to eat other foods -- this way, you'll still get adequate fat and nutrition, even when you're unable to eat solid foods. Avoid acidic and spicy vegetables, such as tomatoes and chili peppers, as they may exacerbate the split lip. Rinse off all canned vegetables before eating them, because the added salt could sting the lip injury.
Meat and Protein
Boiled and steamed meats may be soft enough to eat with a split lip, especially if they are cut into very small pieces. Try small pieces of chicken, turkey or fish that are cooled to room temperature. For vegetarians, eggs are also a nutritious source of protein that is mild enough to eat with a split lip. Eat soft-boiled eggs or scrambled eggs that have been cooled to room temperature for breakfast to add extra protein to a meal.
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