Nutrition is an important aspect of your recovery after hip and knee replacement surgery. You can speed up your healing process and improve your outcomes by eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet during your surgical recovery and rehabilitation. As March is National Nutrition Month, let’s focus on what are the best foods to eat after hip and knee replacement surgery.
Here are some general guidelines and tips to help you plan your diet after surgery.
- Protein: Protein is the building block of your muscles, bones, and tissues. It helps repair and regenerate the damaged cells and tissues around your new joint. Aim to eat 20 to 30 grams of protein per meal.
- Iron: You may lose some blood during surgery, which can lower your iron levels and make you feel tired and weak. Eat foods rich in iron, such as red meat, liver, spinach, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals.
- Vitamin C: This is a vitamin that helps your body produce collagen, a protein that strengthens your bones, cartilage, tendons, and skin. Vitamin C is found in many fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, strawberries, kiwi, broccoli, peppers, and tomatoes.
- Calcium and Vitamin D: After surgery, your bones may need extra calcium and vitamin D to heal and prevent fractures. Eat foods high in calcium, such as dairy products, leafy greens, almonds, and tofu. Get enough vitamin D from sunlight exposure, fatty fish, eggs, and fortified foods.
- Fiber and Fluids: Constipation is a common problem after surgery, due to the use of pain medications, reduced activity, and changes in diet. To avoid constipation, eat foods high in fiber, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, and nuts. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, juice, and herbal tea. Avoid foods that can cause gas, bloating, or diarrhea, such as spicy, greasy, or fried foods.
Contact Dr. Buchalter to discuss your options if you are considering joint replacement surgery and have any questions about the procedure or recovery after surgery,
David N. Buchalter, MD is a board-certified, fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in minimally invasive hip and knee replacement surgery at South Palm Orthopedics. Dr. Buchalter uses the latest cutting-edge surgical and nonsurgical techniques for orthopedic patients across South Florida.
