One can generally resume usual eating habits following prostate surgery. However, particular foods and nutrients may reduce future cancer risk and help manage symptoms, such as pain, swelling and constipation. If you've recently had or plan to have prostate surgery, consider healthy dietary steps as tool toward improving the healing process.
Vegetables
Vegetables provide the body with beneficial nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which support a healthy immune system and help the body defend itself against infections and disease. Aaron Katz, M.D., of New York-Presbyterian Hospital suggests a diet rich in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage, for those who've undergone prostate surgery. Such foods are nutrient-rich and hold anti-inflammatory properties. Consume cruciferous vegetables raw or lightly cooked to preserve nutrients.
Katz also suggests lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes and tomato products, as a useful nutrient following prostate surgery. Additional antioxidant-rich vegetables that may help support healing include leafy greens, such as spinach, kale and mustard greens and bell peppers. Incorporate a variety of fresh, colorful vegetables into your diet on a regular, consistent basis to reap broadest nutritional benefits.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, mackerel and sardines, contain omega-3 fatty acids--essential fats the human body can't manufacture on its own. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, men who consume fish regularly show reduced risk for prostate cancer. Omega-3 fats may also help relieve pain and inflammation that occurs as a result of prosate surgery. Fatty fish also serve as a nutritious alternative to red meat, deep-fried foods and whole milk products, which contain saturated fats--unhealthy fats associated with increased risk for cancer as well as inflammation.
Whole Grains
Whole grains, such as oats, barley, spelt, whole wheat, bulgur, wild rice and brown rice, contain a variety of nutrients, including antioxidants, and are a valuable source of dietary fiber. According to the Loma Linda University Medical Center, constipation is a common side effect following prostate surgery. To prevent or help treat constipation, incorporate a variety of whole grains into your diet.
Replace most refined carbohydrates, such as enriched white breads and sugary sweets, with whole grain equivalents, since processed carbohdyrates provide few nutrients and little dietary fiber. When purchasing breads, cereals, pasta and other carbohydrate-based foods, check nutrition labels to ensure whole grains are listed as primary ingredients. If your constipation is intense or does not respond to fiber-rich foods, talk with your doctor about the potential need for laxative supplementation.
