Nissen fundoplication is a type of bariatric surgery that can help to treat GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) and other digestive disorders. Following the procedure, it is important for patients to make changes to their diet in order to promote healing and prevent complications.
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Why Diet is Important After Nissen Fundoplication?
Nissen fundoplication involves wrapping the upper part of the stomach around the esophagus to tighten the lower esophageal sphincter and prevent reflux. This can cause changes to the digestive system and may impact the way that food is processed. As a result, it is important for patients to follow a specific diet following the procedure in order to promote healing and prevent complications.
What to Eat After Nissen Fundoplication?
After Nissen fundoplication, patients will typically need to follow a soft, low-fat diet for several weeks in order to give the digestive system time to heal. This can include foods such as:
- Pureed Foods
Pureed foods, such as pureed fruits and vegetables, can help to provide the necessary nutrients while being gentle on the digestive system.
- Protein
Protein is an important part of a healthy diet, and patients can include lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, or tofu.
- Complex Carbohydrates
Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grain breads and pastas, can provide energy and help to promote healing.
- High-Fiber Foods
High-fiber foods, such as fruits and vegetables, can help to promote digestive health and prevent constipation.
Foods to Avoid After Nissen Fundoplication
In addition to following a soft, low-fat diet, it is also important for patients to avoid certain foods that can cause discomfort or contribute to reflux symptoms. These can include:
- Fatty or Fried Foods
Fatty or fried foods can be difficult to digest and can contribute to reflux symptoms.
- Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can irritate the digestive system and contribute to reflux symptoms.
- Caffeine and Alcohol
Caffeine and alcohol can irritate the digestive system and contribute to reflux symptoms.
- Carbonated Beverages
Carbonated beverages can increase pressure in the stomach and contribute to reflux symptoms.
Eating Habits After Nissen Fundoplication
In addition to following a specific diet, it is also important for patients to develop healthy eating habits following Nissen fundoplication. This can include:
- Eating Small, Frequent Meals
Eating small, frequent meals can help to prevent overeating and reduce the risk of reflux symptoms.
- Chewing Food Thoroughly
Chewing food thoroughly can help to break down the food and make it easier to digest.
- Avoiding Lying Down After Eating
Lying down after eating can increase the risk of reflux symptoms, so it is important to avoid this behavior.
Medications
After surgery, it’s essential to take all your medications according to a consistent schedule. Doing this helps avoid dehydration or excessive heat which could increase the likelihood of infection.
You may also be prescribed oral pain medicine and an anti-nausea pill such as Phenergan. It’s important to avoid retching or vomiting since this could interfere with the healing of your hernia.
In most cases, side effects are mild. Bloating, difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) and nausea are common but usually resolve over time.
The Nissen fundoplication, a straightforward and commonly performed procedure, has long been proven to effectively resolve reflux issues for more than 90% of patients with typical GERD symptoms. The procedure can be completed laparoscopically through several small incisions while the surgeon watches on a video monitor.
Conclusion
Eating after Nissen fundoplication can be a challenging process, but following a specific diet and developing healthy eating habits can help to promote healing and prevent complications. If you have recently undergone Nissen fundoplication, it is important to work with your doctor or a nutritionist to develop a diet plan that is right for you. By following a soft, low-fat diet and avoiding foods that can contribute to reflux symptoms, you can help to ensure a successful recovery and enjoy the benefits of your procedure.
