After the completion of your surgery, it’s important that you practice good self-care. In addition to following the healthcare and medication regimens prescribed by your thyroid surgeon, you’ll also need to be aware of other ways you can take care of yourself to aid in your recovery.
Your Diet Post-Surgery
Part of that self-care process may include making temporary changes to your diet. While most patients find that they can quickly enjoy the same foods they had before surgery, you may have a sore or tender-feeling throat for a few days after the procedure. A change in your diet may offer some help. Consider these foods while recovering.
Stick to Soft, Cool Foods
If you’re left with a sore or tender throat after your surgery, it’s best to include soft and cool foods in your diet.
Smoothies made from fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables are a great way to incorporate nutrient-rich foods into your diet. Similarly, if your throat is feeling particularly tender, eating small ice chips can help soothe the sore feeling.
Other soft foods you might consider including in your diet are soups, yogurt, and cottage cheese. All of these offer good nutritional value while still being easy to swallow. Tender, steamed vegetables and mashed potatoes are also a great option. Of course, if you’re craving something sweet, a milkshake or bowl of ice cream is ideal.
Enjoy Foods that are Rich in Vitamin C
Offering your body nutrient rich food is a great way to improve your recovery times and make it easier to get back to your normal routine. Vitamin C plays a vital role in repairing your body, healing your wounds, and developing necessary scar tissue. Fortunately, it’s easy to ingest plenty of vitamin C while you’re recovering. Vitamin C is easily water soluble, and there are numerous powders and drinks that are packed with this vitamin.
Additionally, you can enjoy fruits and vegetables in smoothies and soft meals. Make sure to stock up on oranges, strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries to get a sweet source of this critical vitamin. You can also find vitamin C in broccoli, spinach, cauliflower, bell peppers, and tomatoes.
Prioritize the Intake of Zinc
Like vitamin C, your body will need other specific minerals to accelerate your recovery. Zinc is essential in the process of healing wounds and keeping your immune system functioning properly.
You can find plenty of zinc in high-protein foods like chicken, beef, and pork. You’ll also find it in whole grains, nuts, and legumes. For vegans or vegetarians, you may need to start taking a zinc supplement to get the necessary amount of zinc.
Seek Out the Highest Quality of Care
The success of your recovery starts with choosing the right thyroid and parathyroid surgeon. For those in need of a skilled, experienced thyroid surgeon in Central Texas, look no further than Dr. Teresa Kroeker. With years of advanced training, and after performing thousands of thyroid surgeries, Dr. Kroeker is Austin’s leading thyroid surgeon. Contact the Texas Thyroid & Parathyroid Center today to request an appointment.
