A cesarean section is something that goes far beyond a common surgery, it is an accumulation of emotions ranging from the excitement of becoming a mother, to the nerves of the surgical process itself.
One of the new mother's biggest concerns regarding the cesarean section is her recovery. As a rule, between 2 and 4 days of hospitalization are required, however, this is only the beginning of many cares that must be carried out at home and among these is feeding. A proper diet is indispensable for a successful cure and prevention of infections, so we have decided in, bring you a list of prohibited foods after a cesarean section.
What to eat after a C-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 those first months is to strengthen the body and heal the tissues affected in the intervention. In summary, the diet of a woman with cesarean section should include the following:
Consume protein
Proteins are necessary in the diet for tissue regeneration and repair, as well as helping better and faster healing. It is best to consume fat-free meat and chicken or poultry in general; also complement with nuts and legumes.
Drink plenty of fluids
In addition to fulfilling the function of keeping the mother hydrated, it prevents constipation, a problem that occurs very often 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. As for minerals, it is of utmost importance to consume iron to improve the immune system and restore hemoglobin levels. Choose foods such as:
- Orange
- 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 start incorporating more solids such as chicken or grilled meat, rice without seasonings or puree, either potatoes or vegetables.
What not to eat after a C-section
The most important thing when it comes to taking care of yourself after a surgical intervention such as cesarean section, is to prevent infections or gas and, in both cases, food 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 decrease air intake, thus avoiding flatulence and inflammation.
Soft drinks
Excess sugar slows healing due to its effect on the blood, and soft drinks tend to generate a sharp rise in insulin, which is not suitable for wound healing. Similarly, its high gas content generates abdominal bloating, nothing recommended for the recovery of the wound in cesarean section.
Avoid these kinds of drinks for about 3-4 weeks, including processed and pre-made 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 little delicate. In addition to this, these drinks provide a lot of energy to the body by caffeine, which can be transmitted to the baby through breast milk.
Fried foods, snacks or sweets
All this kind of industrial sweets are the worst enemy of inflammation and constipation. Either because of its excess sugar or salt, it causes the body to retain fluids, favoring swelling and slowing down 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
Alcohol
In general, alcohol is not healthy for either the baby or you. Avoid 100% any drink with alcoholic strength, as well as tobacco.
You may also be interested in this other article about Foods that produce gas and bloating.
General care after a C-section
In addition to taking into account these foods for after a cesarean section, in general, it is convenient to take into account these things:
- Avoid tubs, bathtubs, or pools until the wound has healed.
- Keep sex on the side for about 40 days or until your doctor tells you to.
- Don't use tampons or douche.
- Beware of lifting weight or overexertion.
- Avoid physical exercise until your doctor tells you to.
Now that you know what the forbidden foods are after a C-section, you may also be interested in this other article on How to Care for Yourself After a C-Section.
