What should I eat while I recover?
Eat some protein at every meal, plenty of vegetables and fruit, and drink enough fluids. The body uses protein to repair tissue, and fibre and water keep the bowels working while you move less.
You do not need a special diet. You need regular, balanced meals that you can actually eat, even when your appetite is low.
Which everyday Ipoh foods help?
You will find most of what you need at the kopitiam, the market or in your own kitchen.
- Protein: fish, eggs, chicken, tofu, tempeh, dhal and soy milk.
- Gentle meals: congee (bubur) with egg and fish, clear soups, steamed fish with rice.
- Vegetables: kangkung, bean sprouts, spinach, cabbage and pumpkin.
- Fruit: papaya, banana, guava and watermelon.
- Wholegrains: brown rice, oats or wholemeal bread in place of white where you can.
Ipoh’s famous bean sprout chicken or a bowl of hor fun with chicken can fit well, when it is not too oily or salty. Ask for soup with the meal and watch how much you eat.
What if my appetite is low?
Eat small portions at shorter intervals rather than three big meals. Soft foods go down more easily, such as congee, soups, steamed egg, soft tofu and fruit smoothies.
Have a drink with each meal, and keep a snack by the bed. If you are losing weight, cannot eat for days or feel weak and dizzy, tell your doctor. Weakness slows rehabilitation.
What about pantang and food advice from relatives?
Many families have rules for the weeks after surgery. Some say avoid chicken, seafood or eggs because they are “gatal” (itchy), or avoid cold or “heaty” foods. These come from care and should be respected as such.
The practical concern is protein. The body needs it to heal, and cutting out protein foods can slow recovery. Ask your surgeon or the hospital dietitian which foods are safe, then tell your relatives what the professional said.
How can I avoid constipation?
Painkillers and less movement slow the bowels. Eat vegetables, fruit and wholegrains, drink water through the day and walk as your surgeon allows.
Do not strain. If constipation lasts more than a few days or is painful, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Our guide on hydration and cramps in the hot climate covers fluids in more detail.
When should I ask a dietitian?
Ask a dietitian or your doctor if you have diabetes, kidney or heart disease, trouble swallowing, significant weight loss or a wound that is healing slowly. Foods that suit one condition may not suit another.
If swallowing is difficult after a stroke, read stroke, speech and swallowing referral. We are physiotherapists, so we can guide you on movement but refer you to others for diet.
What else helps recovery?
Sleep, not smoking and gentle activity all matter as much as food. Read sleep and recovery and smoking and healing. For daily tasks after an operation, see daily activities after surgery.
If you are home from Hospital Raja Permaisuri Bainun, Fatimah Hospital or another hospital, your discharge instructions come first.
How can a physiotherapist help at home?
We start gentle movement at the right pace for your energy, and show you how to do it between meals and rests. We also tell you what to raise with your doctor if weakness is getting in the way.
Home physiotherapy in Ipoh means you do not need to travel while you are tired. Our Canning Garden centre is opening soon for those who prefer to come to us.