Foods To Eat Or Avoid After Fibroid Surgery To Promote Healing

Key takeaways:

• Your diet can dramatically influence your post-surgery healing journey.
• Staple foods like vegetables, beans, and whole grains are highly nutritious and beneficial for recovery after fibroid surgery.
• After a fibroid surgery, it's best to avoid inflammatory foods and focus on nutrient-dense options to rebuild strength.

Recovering from fibroid surgery requires more than just rest. While rest and medical care are crucial, the foods you eat can significantly impact how quickly and comfortably you heal. From energy-boosting meals to nutrient-dense snacks to restore energy, the right diet can make all the difference.

This article explores foods that promote fibroid healing, provides tips for preventing complications, and also offers practical advice to ensure a smooth recovery.

Does what you eat after surgery matter?

Absolutely! Surgery puts your body under stress, making it work overtime to heal, and it needs the right fuel (food) to do so. The foods you eat can:

• Enhance tissue repair and wound healing.
• Reduce inflammation and pain.
• Strengthen your immune system against infections.
• Restore energy levels.

By choosing foods rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and protein, the body has the tools it needs to recover efficiently.

Foods to eat after fibroid surgery

Foods you should consume more of after fibroid surgery to support recovery include:

1. Leafy green vegetables

Leafy vegetables are staple foods in many parts of the world, including developing countries like Nigeria. Examples of leafy, green vegetables are ugu (fluted pumpkin leaves), ewedu (jute leaves), and spinach. These vegetables are powerhouses of vitamins A, C, and K and are great food options for a post-fibroid surgery diet.

These nutrients are critical for repairing tissues, reducing inflammation, and boosting immunity. Include them in soups like egusi, vegetable soup, or stir-fries to maximize their healing benefits.

2. Beans and lentils

Rich in protein and fiber, legumes like black-eyed peas and brown beans are essential for rebuilding tissues since they contain a considerable amount of protein.

Since digestion is usually sluggish after surgeries, the high fiber content of legumes & lentils can aid improve digestion.

Beans can be paired with boiled plantains or rice for a balanced, satisfying meal, while black-eyed peas can be made into porridge with yam or potatoes and lots of veggies.

3. Whole grains

Whole grains such as ofada rice, oats, millet, and guinea corn provide sustained energy and B vitamins. These staples help you stay energized and support overall recovery.

4. Fresh fruits

Fruits like pawpaw, oranges, watermelon, and bananas provide antioxidants and vitamin C. These nutrients speed up wound healing, strengthen the immune system, and combat inflammation.

Fruits can be eaten as snacks throughout the day or blended into refreshing smoothies topped with nuts or seeds for added nutrients.

5. Fish and lean proteins

Grilled mackerel, tilapia, and chicken are excellent sources of lean protein and essential amino acids. Fish, in particular, contains omega-3 fatty acids that reduce inflammation and promote faster healing.

6. Nuts and seeds

Walnuts, groundnuts, and sesame seeds are packed with healthy fats, zinc, and magnesium. These nutrients play a vital role in tissue repair and improve energy levels. You can enjoy them as snacks or sprinkle them over salads.

7. Probiotic foods

Gut health is crucial for overall recovery, especially if you have been placed on antibiotics. Probiotics like yogurt, kunu, soymilk and fermented soy products and unsweetened or lightly sweetened zobo can restore your gut’s natural balance and enhance nutrient absorption.

8. Water and water-rich foods

Water is the best hydrating liquid, but options like cucumber, watermelon, and broth also help you remain hydrated. Proper hydration flushes out toxins and supports overall recovery.

9. Sweet potatoes

Rich in vitamin A and complex carbohydrates, sweet potatoes provide the energy and nutrients needed for recovery. You can pair them with vegetable sauces for a balanced meal and a recovery-friendly meal.

10. Herbal teas

Herbal teas like ginger or moringa offer anti-inflammatory benefits and aid digestion. Avoid caffeinated teas and swap to nutritious herbal teas to improve sleep, hydration, and relaxation.

Foods to avoid after a fibroid operation

Scientific evidence suggests that some foods may be less favorable for fibroids or may worsen it. Examples of foods to avoid or limit if you have or have had fibroid include the following:

• Processed and fried foods
• Sugary snacks and drinks
• Red and processed meats
• High-sodium foods
• Alcohol and caffeine

Other ways to care for yourself after surgery

Here are other self-care tips for after your fibroid surgery:

• Stay active. Gentle movements, such as walking and simply moving arms or legs even while lying down, can improve circulation and prevent complications like blood clots.
• Get plenty of rest. Prioritize quality sleep to give your body the time it needs to heal.
• Follow medical advice. Stick to your medical team's recommendations, including medications, nutrition intervention, and follow-up appointments.
• Stay hydrated. Drink water consistently throughout the day to support recovery and prevent dehydration.
• Manage stress. Practice mindfulness, meditation, or breathing exercises to lower stress levels and promote faster healing.