Plastic surgery interventions vary in complexity and recovery times. It is not the same to recover from a facelift than a breast reconstruction or a liposuction. But there is some common medical information in every process of recovery. All people want to recover as quickly as possible and try to minimize illness time. Although the patient should not accelerate recovery times in any way, but a series of simple steps can be followed that can help reestablish shortened dates. A correct nutritional choice helps to achieve a faster healing of wounds and mitigates the chances of complications. These are some of the advantages of using a good postoperative diet:
- Compensates for the loss of blood suffered during the surgical procedure
- Helps incisions heal
- Provides the raw materials needed by the immune system to protect against possible infections
- Increase the energy level
- Helps to repair skin, blood vessels, muscles and bones
What type of food should be consumed?
Fibers
Foods rich in fiber help stabilize the digestive processes by reducing the risk of constipation, a relatively common side effect after surgery. The recommended foods are: whole grain bread, fruits, vegetables and certain cereals rich in fiber. In addition, dehydrated or processed foods, dairy products, red meat and sweets should be avoided. These are common patient guides for all types of surgeries.
Proteins
After surgery, the muscle tissue is damaged and needs repair. Adequate protein intake helps the body rebuild body tissues. Vegetarians and vegans should look for proteins in almonds, tofu, seitan and tempeh. While patients with carnivorous inclinations should avoid red meat due to the high levels of saturated fats they contain, betting on lean meats such as chicken, pork and seafood.
Vitamin A
An adequate intake of vitamin A promotes epithelial and bone formation, in addition to improving general immune function. Green leafy foods such as kale or spinach are a rich source of vitamin A. Other foods rich in this type of vitamin are carrots, squash or peppers. Vitamin A is soluble in fat, so to favor optimal absorption it is advisable to consume this type of food with a little fat. For example, kale can be prepared with a splash of extra virgin olive oil.
Vitamin C
In addition to increasing the formation of collagen, vitamin C promotes immune function and acts as an antioxidant for tissue, blocking the harmful effects of free radicals. Vitamin C is soluble in water and requires continuous consumption, since residual amounts of vitamin C are expelled from the body in our urine. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, kiwi, mango, broccoli and potatoes.
Zinc-rich foods
Pumpkin and sesame seeds are an excellent source of zinc. Zinc is necessary to improve the functioning of the immune system. The body requires zinc to develop and activate the cells that participate in the immune process. Zinc is also important for wound healing, since it is a necessary mineral for protein synthesis and cell growth.
Do not forget to drink water
Adequate hydration is essential for good daily nutrition, especially when the body is recovering from surgery. An adequate consumption of water makes it possible to clean impurities, stabilize the metabolism, reduce pain in the joints, as well as help to combat fatigue.
These were the few common guidelines for all types of surgeries. However, you can see more animated guide here for the procedures and recoveries from the surgeries.