Nutrition, at its most basic definition, is the fluids and foods we need to survive. After surgical procedures, it is important to meet nutritional needs in order to facilitate optimal healing.
The single most important nutrient is water. Generally, adults should drink six to eight glasses of water per day. After oral surgery, patients should avoid carbonated beverages, should not drink through a straw, and should not brush or rinse vigorously.
For patients who undergo surgery, often it is difficult to meet caloric needs because a semi-solid diet is recommended. The surgical site should not be overly stressed, and foods should be able to be consumed without biting or chewing.
The following is a list of suggestions for a soft food diet:
- Water, Jello, Clear Broth, popsicles
- Pancakes, French toast, oatmeal
- Yogurt
- Scrambled eggs, omelets, egg salad sandwich on soft bread
- Noodle soups, potato soup, vegetable soup
- Hummus on soft pita bread
- Smoothies, milk shakes, protein shakes, Boost or Ensure drinks
- Soft fruit, applesauce
- Macaroni & cheese
- Bean and cheese burritos
- Pasta dishes
- Mashed potatoes, baked potatoes, sweet potatoes
- Pierogies, gnocci
- Flaky fish
Stay well hydrated, eat nutritious soft foods, avoid crunchy or hard foods, and your healing will progress.