What should patients with gastric cancer pay attention to in their diet after surgery

Patients with gastric cancer need to pay special attention to their diet after surgery. They should eat small amounts and multiple times, gradually transition, and supplement nutrition.

1. Eat small amounts and frequently: After gastric cancer surgery, the capacity and function of the stomach will be weakened. In order to reduce the burden on the stomach, it is recommended to change three meals a day to six or even more meals a day. The amount of food eaten each time should not be too much to avoid excessive expansion of the stomach and indigestion. For example, the original breakfast, lunch, and dinner can be divided into six small meals, each with a small amount, which can not only meet nutritional needs but also reduce stomach pressure.

2. Gradual transition: Postoperative diet needs to be gradually transitioned according to the rhythm of body recovery. You can start drinking water on the second day after surgery, and gradually increase the amount of water you drink after adapting. Next, you can gradually transition to a clear liquid diet, such as porridge, clear soup, etc., to ensure the adaptability of the stomach and intestines. Wait until the body recovers further, and then gradually increase the type and amount of food, transitioning from liquid food to soft food, and finally to a normal diet.

3. Nutritional supplement: The body is weak after surgery and needs adequate nutritional support. You can choose high-protein, low-fat, easily digestible foods, such as eggs, lean meat, fish, etc. At the same time, pay attention to supplementing vitamins and minerals, which can be achieved by eating fruits and vegetables. For example, apples, bananas, carrots, spinach, etc. are all good choices.

4. Avoid irritating foods: The stomach is more sensitive after surgery, so you should avoid spicy, greasy, overly sweet, and overly sour foods. These foods can easily irritate the gastric mucosa and cause discomfort. For example, peppers, fried chicken, desserts, lemons, etc. should be avoided as much as possible.

5. Pay attention to food hygiene: Patients have low immunity after surgery and are prone to infection. Pay special attention to food hygiene. All food should be thoroughly cooked and avoid raw or cold food. Tableware should also be kept clean to prevent bacterial infection.

6. Drink water in moderation: After surgery, patients need to maintain a moderate amount of water intake, but it is not advisable to drink a large amount of water at one time. You can choose to drink water in small amounts and multiple times to maintain the body's water balance. For example, drink a small glass of water each time and replenish it multiple times to avoid excessive stimulation of the stomach.

7. Eat at regular times: Developing the habit of eating at regular times will help restore stomach function. Try to avoid overeating and maintain a regular eating rhythm. For example, eat at a fixed time every day to form good eating habits.

8. Chew thoroughly: The digestive function of patients after surgery is weak, so they should chew thoroughly when eating to reduce the burden on the stomach. Chew each mouthful of food as finely as possible before swallowing, which helps digestion and absorption of food.

Through the above points, the diet of gastric cancer patients after surgery can better help the body recover, reduce postoperative discomfort, and improve the quality of life. I hope these suggestions are helpful to you.