A cesarean section is something that goes far beyond a common surgery, it is a cluster of emotions that range from the excitement of becoming a mother, to the nerves due to the surgical process itself.
One of the new mother’s biggest concerns regarding the cesarean section is her recovery. As a general rule, between 2 and 4 days of hospitalization are required, however, this is just the beginning of many care that must be carried out at home and among these is feeding. A proper diet is essential for a successful cure and the prevention of infections, for this we have decided in a HOW TO, bring you a list of prohibited foods after cesarean section.
What to eat after a cesarean section
The diet that must be carried out after a procedure like this must be quite specific and very rich in nutrients. Although many women worry about losing the weight of pregnancy, the main thing in those first months is to strengthen the body and heal the affected tissues in the intervention. In short, the diet of a woman with caesarean section should include the following:
Eat protein
Proteins are necessary in the diet for the regeneration and repair of tissues, in addition to helping a better and faster healing. The most advisable thing is to consume meat free of fat and chicken or poultry in general; also complement with nuts and legumes.
Drink lots of fluids
In addition to fulfilling the function of keeping the mother hydrated, it prevents constipation, a problem that occurs very frequently after childbirth in general. It is advisable to drink at least 8 glasses of liquid per day, either water, juices or milk.
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins are necessary to replenish the body and in the case of vitamin C, help healing. Regarding minerals, the consumption of iron is of utmost importance to improve the immune system and restore hemoglobin levels. Choose foods like:
- Orange
- Pink grapefruit
- Strawberry
- Kiwi
- Potatoes
- Carrot
- Tomato
- Broccoli
The most recommended for the following days is to start with chicken soups or broths, for the following week begin to incorporate more solids such as grilled chicken or meat, rice without seasonings or puree, either potatoes or vegetables.
What not to eat after a cesarean section
The most important thing when it comes to taking care of yourself after a surgical intervention such as cesarean section, is prevent infection or gas And, in both cases, the diet will help to avoid them or, on the contrary, to cause them. Apart from a proper diet, not talking while eating and chewing well can help reduce air intake, therefore flatulence and inflammation would be avoided.
Fizzy drinks
Excess sugar slows healing due to its effect on the blood, and sodas or sodas tend to cause a spike in insulin, which is not suitable for wound healing. In the same way, its high gas content generates abdominal swelling, which is not recommended for recovering from a cesarean section wound.
Avoid these kinds of drinks for 3-4 weeks, including pre-made and processed juices. Opt for homemade juices and mineral water.
Coffees and teas
These drinks tend to fall very heavy on the stomach and remember that after surgery, the digestive system is a bit delicate. In addition to this, these drinks provide a lot of energy to the body through caffeine, which can be transmitted to the baby through breast milk.
Fried foods, snacks or sweets
All these kinds of industrial sweets are the worst enemy of inflammation and constipation. Either due to its excess of sugar or salt, it makes the body retain fluids, promoting bloating and slowing down the bowel movement. Similarly, keep in mind that these products have very few nutrients, making it an intake of pure sugars, saturated fat and carbohydrates.
Legumes or fruits that cause gas
There are several foods that generate gas or inflammation due to their composition. Among those are:
- Lentils and beans in general
- Dairy products and derivatives
- Apples, pears, or grapes
- Cabbage, cauliflower, artichokes, or radishes
Alcoholic drinks
In general, alcohol is not healthy for you or your baby. Avoid 100% any drink with an alcoholic degree, as well as tobacco.
You may also be interested in this other article on Foods that produce gas and bloating.
General care after a cesarean section
In addition to taking into account these foods for after a cesarean section, in general, it is convenient keep these things in mind:
- Avoid tubs, bathtubs, or swimming pools until the wound has healed.
- Keep sexual intercourse for about 40 days or until your doctor tells you.
- Don’t use tampons or douche.
- Be careful with lifting weights or overexerting yourself.
- Avoid physical exercise until directed by your doctor.
Now that you know what are the forbidden foods after a cesarean section, you may also be interested in this other oneHOWTO article on How to take care of yourself after a cesarean section.
This article is merely informative, at oneHOWTO we do not have the power to prescribe any medical treatment or make any type of diagnosis. We invite you to see a doctor in the case of presenting any type of condition or discomfort.
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