What to Eat After Hernia Surgery: Top Tips for 2024

Hernia surgery is a common procedure that repairs a tear or weakness in the abdominal wall. According to the FDA, each year, over 1 million Americans and over 20 million people worldwide need a hernia surgery, so you’ll be part of quite a large club if you need one.

The procedure is safe, but recovery varies depending on the type. For instance, recovery from inguinal and ventral hernia usually takes up to 2 weeks and has no specific dietary requirements, while hiatal hernia has several stages (up to 6 weeks), and proper nutrition is essential to support the healing process¹.

Since hiatal hernia is the most demanding, I consulted our in-house nutritionist and compiled a list of foods recommended for each recovery phase. Most of these foods also fit recovery needs from other types of hernias, so have a read, talk to your doctor, and design a menu that works best for your needs.

What to Eat After Hernia Surgery

Depending on the type of hernia, you may experience various post-surgery symptoms. 

Be on the lookout for:

• Swelling – Some esophagus swelling, which makes swallowing difficult

• Pain – Pain or discomfort around the groin area

• Side effects of anesthesia² – Look out for drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, and nausea

• Dehydration from fasting before surgery – Proper hydration is necessary throughout your recovery. 

The healing process can take up to 6 weeks (usually for hiatal hernia), during which your dietary needs and restrictions will change. Your doctor will provide you with a list of what you can and can’t eat during each phase, so make sure to take that into account as well.

Types of Hernia

Since recovery is different depending on the type of hernia, let’s first look at what each type of hernia surgery implies. In general, there are 3 types of hernias:

Inguinal Hernia

This is the most common type, occurring when a part of the intestine or abdominal tissue pushes through a weak spot in the lower abdominal wall, often into the inguinal canal in the groin. It's more prevalent in men.

Recovery for this type of hernia is quite swift³. You can go home the same day if there are no complications during surgery. Also, there are no specific dietary recommendations besides drinking lots of fluids and eating plenty of vegetables, fruit, and high-fiber foods to reduce the risk of constipation.

Ventral Hernia 

This occurs when tissue pushes through a weakness in the abdominal muscles along the abdominal wall's front (ventral) part. This type of hernia can develop anywhere along the abdomen but is most common around previous surgical sites. 

It may also happen due to factors like obesity, pregnancy, or strenuous physical activity, which increase pressure on the abdominal muscles. Recovery is also swift, with no dietary recommendations except high-fiber foods to avoid constipation⁴.

Hiatal Hernia 

This happens when part of the stomach pushes up into the chest cavity through the diaphragm. This type often leads to acid reflux and is more common in older adults. In this case, recovery is more complex and can last for up to 6 weeks⁵.

Moving forward, I will discuss the dietary recommendations and restrictions that usually apply to hiatal hernia. 

What to Eat in the First 24 Hours After Surgery

The first 24 hours after your surgery are crucial for your recovery, and you should strictly follow your surgeon's recommendations regarding nutrition. 

For instance, if your surgery involved the intestines, you may be placed on a liquid diet. This approach helps manage nausea that commonly occurs due to anesthesia and prevents excessive pressure from building up in the intestines, which could interfere with the healing process.

Clear liquids such as water, broth, tea, and clear non-acidic juices are usually recommended to keep you hydrated and maintain electrolyte balance. If things go well during the first hours, you might be allowed to include other liquids like gelatin and non-citrus fruit juices. 

The focus during this time is on gentle, easily digestible options that support your recovery without straining your digestive system.

What to Eat After Hernia Surgery (Week 1)

Once you go over the initial 24 hours, you should be able to ingest some soft foods in small quantities. You still have to be extra careful as the abdomen area and intestines are still sensitive, and it’s best to avoid building any unnecessary pressure.

Eating small, frequent meals can help prevent bloating and discomfort, allowing your digestive system to adjust gradually. 

• Clear broths or strained soups: Choose options low in fat and fiber. Chicken or vegetable broth is gentle on the stomach and can provide hydration.

• Blended smoothies: Prepare these using non-citrus fruits, yogurt, and milk or a milk substitute. They are easy to digest and can provide essential nutrients.

• Pudding and gelatin: Soft and easy-to-swallow options that provide a source of hydration and simple carbohydrates.

• Mashed potatoes: Enjoy plain and smooth without skins or heavy seasoning.

• Oatmeal or cream of wheat: Cook well and eat without any added nuts or seeds.

• Unsweetened applesauce: Easy to digest and low in fiber.

• Plain, low-fat yogurt: Rich in probiotics, which can help maintain a healthy digestive system. Opt for varieties without added sugar.

• Scrambled eggs: Soft, scrambled eggs are a good source of protein that’s gentle on the stomach. Make sure they’re well-cooked and not too oily.

• Cottage cheese: This is soft and a good source of protein and calcium. Easy to digest when eaten in small portions.

Also, remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day. You can also include herbal teas and diluted non-citrus fruit juices to stay hydrated.

What to Eat After Hernia Surgery (Weeks 2 and 3)

As you enter the second and third weeks after hernia surgery, you can gradually expand your diet to include more variety while still focusing on soft foods and easy-to-digest options. 

Diversify your diet by incorporating foods high in soluble fiber, like oatmeal, applesauce, or cooked carrots. Fiber, coupled with drinking plenty of liquids (water, juice, broth, herbal tea), is important to help prevent constipation, which can be a common issue due to reduced physical activity during recovery. It’s worth noting that soluble fiber can help with constipation and diarrhea, but insoluble fiber may make diarrhea worse⁶ ⁷.

At this stage in your recovery, it’s important to listen to your body and avoid foods that cause discomfort or bloating. Gradually introducing more fiber into your diet will help regulate bowel movements and support a smoother recovery process.

Some ideal foods are:

• Pureed veggies and fruits: Pureed vegetables like carrots, peas, and squash are gentle on the digestive system. Pureeing fruits like bananas and peaches is also good.

• Smooth soups: Move into slightly thicker soups that include blended vegetables and legumes. Soups like butternut squash or lentil soup are a great option.

• Cereals softened in milk: Whole-grain cereals soaked in milk or a milk substitute are a comforting breakfast option.

• Mashed or soft vegetables: Mash or finely chop soft-cooked vegetables such as zucchini, sweet potatoes, and cauliflower. These provide fiber without being too harsh on the digestive system.

• Soft fruits: Fruits like ripe bananas, pears, avocados, and melons are soft and easy to digest.

• Whole-grain bread: Soft whole-grain bread or toast can be introduced in small amounts. Just make sure to chew every bite.

• Lean proteins: Choose soft, lean protein sources like baked or poached fish, soft chicken pieces, or scrambled eggs.

• Cottage cheese and yogurt: Continue with plain, low-fat yogurt and cottage cheese. These can be paired with soft fruits for added flavor and nutrition.

What to Eat After Hernia Surgery (Weeks 4, 5, and 6)

Weeks 4 and 5 are a transition period, where you can start introducing denser foods into your diet while still paying attention to how your body responds. 

Add more solid options like cooked rice, well-cooked pasta, and steamed vegetables to your daily diet. Flaked fish and minced meat can also be incorporated, as they provide essential nutrients and are relatively easy to digest. 

Extra tip: Chew every bite of food thoroughly to help digestion and minimize the risk of discomfort.

You should also pay attention to your protein intake since protein is vital⁸ for an adequate immune response, reducing inflammation, and promoting muscle repair. To make sure you’re having enough, aim to consume about 1 to 1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight each day.

Good protein sources⁹ include lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, and protein-rich plant-based foods like tofu and quinoa.

Once you reach week 6, if your recovery has gone smoothly and you haven't experienced any digestive issues or discomfort with the reintroduction of denser foods, you may be able to return to a normal diet. 

However, it's essential to do so only under the guidance of your healthcare provider. They can assess your progress and ensure your body has successfully adapted to the dietary transitions. 

As you reintroduce more variety and complexity into your meals, continue to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed. Eating a balanced diet rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients will help maintain your overall health and support a full recovery.

5 Hernia-Friendly Recipes to Make at Home

During the 6 weeks of recovery, you won’t find much to eat at a restaurant. You can have food delivered at home, but no meal delivery service caters specifically to hernia patients. This means you won’t find many soft foods on any of the menus available online.

Factor does offer a wide range of smoothies, juices, and shakes that may come in handy during weeks 2 and 3, but for the first week, you’re on your own. It’s worth noting that the smoothies and juices are part of the add-on menu, and you’ll need to order entrees as well. If you live with a partner or friend, they might enjoy these. 

Now, for those of you who like to prepare your meals at home, especially the ones right after a hernia surgery, here are a few delicious meal ideas to keep in mind:

1. Creamy Carrot and Ginger Soup

This deliciously soothing soup is amazing for gaining back a bit of your strength. Also, since all the veggies are blended and the consistency is creamy, you can include it in your diet right after your doctor gives you the green light to eat something other than clear liquids.

The original recipe includes garlic and onion, but during week 1, it’s best to skip them to avoid any stomach irritation. From week 2, you can add more flavor to your soup. Also, the creaminess comes from coconut milk, so the soup is also a good fit for vegetarian and vegan diets.

2. Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Greek Yogurt

Mashed potatoes and plain yogurt are included on the week 1 list of foods, so why not combine them in the same meal? Also, for a bit of extra fiber and antioxidants (great for reducing inflammation), use sweet potatoes. 

If you’re in week 2 or further of your recovery, you can use this recipe as a side dish or add other ingredients, such as steamed/boiled peas or other soft veggies. 

3. Baked Cod with Vegetables

Light fish and veggies are the perfect recipe for weeks 4, 5, and 6. Cod is a lean, low-calorie fish rich in high-quality protein and essential nutrients. It's also an excellent source of vitamin B12, iodine, phosphorus, and omega-3 fatty acids.

You can pair it with steamed veggies or a side of potatoes, but avoid adding any heavy gravy. To make the dish more flavorful, add some Italian herbs and a light vinaigrette with Dijon mustard or a bit of yogurt to soften the acidity. 

4. Soft Scrambled Eggs with Spinach

Easy to make and light on the stomach, this recipe provides high-quality protein (the eggs), essential for tissue repair and recovery. Plus, the spinach adds fiber, vitamins, and minerals like iron and magnesium, promoting overall healing. 

Still, if you’re just in week 1 of recovery, after the first 24 to 48 hours, it’s best to leave the spinach aside and only scramble the eggs. Just make sure to cook them at a low temperature, mixed with a splash of water or milk, to make the eggs soft and airy.

5. Oatmeal with Bananas and Honey

Recommended for week 1, oatmeal is easily digestible and has a high fiber content, which promotes healthy digestion and prevents constipation. However, unless your doctor has cleared you, it’s best to avoid fruits during the first week.

From week 2, feel free to enjoy adding more soft fruits to your oatmeal, not just bananas. But add them progressively. Bananas are gentle on the stomach and rich in potassium, aiding recovery, while honey provides a natural sweetness and antioxidants.

What Not to Eat After Hernia Surgery

Now that you know what to eat after hernia surgery, let’s have a look at the foods you should avoid at all costs during the recovery period.

These are foods that are harsh on the digestive tract or could potentially inflame the intestines. They may cause discomfort, bloating, and even complications that might slow down the healing process. 

• Spicy foods: Spices like chili peppers, hot sauce, and spicy curries can irritate the digestive tract and cause inflammation.

• Fried and greasy foods: Foods that are fried or high in fat, such as fried chicken, french fries, and greasy burgers, are difficult to digest and can lead to bloating and gas.

• Carbonated beverages: Sodas and sparkling water can cause gas and bloating, putting unnecessary pressure on the digestive system.

• Raw vegetables: Raw veggies like carrots, broccoli, and cabbage can be hard to digest and may cause gas. Choose cooked or steamed vegetables instead.

• High-fiber foods: High-fiber foods like beans, lentils, whole-grain bread, and bran cereals can cause gas and bloating.

• Dairy products: Some individuals may experience lactose intolerance after surgery, leading to gas and bloating.

• Citrus fruits: Citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruits, and lemons can be acidic and may irritate the stomach lining.

• Caffeinated beverages: Coffee, tea, and energy drinks containing caffeine can stimulate the digestive system and cause discomfort.

• Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages can irritate the stomach lining and interfere with the healing process.

• Processed and sugary foods: Candy, pastries, sugary cereals, and others can cause inflammation and do not provide the essential nutrients needed for healing.

By avoiding these foods during the first 5 weeks of recovery, you can minimize the risk of digestive issues, reduce inflammation, and support a faster and smoother healing process. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized dietary advice based on your specific surgery and recovery needs.

Lifestyle Changes After Your Hernia Surgery

Even after you’ve made a full recovery, it’s still a good idea to pay attention to what you eat. Healthy eating and lifestyle habits can greatly support your ongoing wellness and help prevent future health issues. 

Here are some effective ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle post-surgery:

Prioritize Whole Foods 🥦🧅🍅

Focus on consuming whole, unprocessed foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. These foods provide essential nutrients, promote a healthy digestive system, and can help reduce inflammation.

Cook at Home More 🏡🍳

Preparing your meals at home allows you to control the ingredients and cooking methods, making it easier to eat healthily. Use fresh ingredients and avoid adding excessive salt, sugar, or unhealthy fats to your meals.

To keep things well-organized, learn how to design a weekly meal plan that fits the tastes and preferences of the entire family.

Include Probiotics in Your Diet 🥤

Incorporate probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and sauerkraut into your diet for a healthy gut. These foods help maintain a balanced gut microbiome, which is essential for good digestion and overall health¹⁰.

Maintain a Healthy Weight 💪

Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the strain on your abdominal muscles and lowers the risk of developing another hernia. Combine a balanced diet with regular exercise to achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

Eat Small Portions 🍽️

Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent overeating and reduce pressure on the digestive system. However, if you struggle with figuring out how big a portion should be, you should try a meal delivery service.

Services like Green Chef or Hello Fresh deliver pre-portioned meal kits, where you get enough ingredients for the number of portions you requested (usually between 2 and 6). There are also services like Factor that deliver single-serving, pre-made meals, which makes things a lot easier.

Stay Active 🏋️

Regular physical activity is important for overall health and well-being. Aim to incorporate moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, into your routine. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, strengthens muscles, and boosts your immune system.

FAQ

What are the best foods to eat after hernia surgery?

The best foods to eat after hernia surgery include soft, easy-to-digest options like broths, pureed vegetables, smoothies, mashed potatoes, oatmeal, or yogurt. These foods provide essential nutrients and are gentle on the digestive system, helping to promote healing and reduce the risk of discomfort or complications.

Can I eat scrambled eggs after hernia surgery?

Yes, scrambled eggs are generally safe to eat after hernia surgery, but starting with day 3. They are soft, easy to digest, and provide a good source of protein, which is important for healing and recovery.

How can I speed up hernia recovery?

To speed up hernia recovery, follow your doctor's dietary recommendations, eat nutrient-rich foods, stay hydrated, and include sufficient protein in your diet. Additionally, heavy lifting and strenuous activities should be avoided to prevent complications.

What is the hardest day after hernia surgery?

The first day after hernia surgery is often considered the hardest, although days 2 and 3 aren’t easy either. You may experience pain, discomfort, and side effects from anesthesia, such as nausea.

What foods shrink a hernia?

There are no specific foods that can shrink a hernia. However, maintaining a healthy diet rich in whole foods, fiber, and lean proteins can support overall digestive health. These habits may help manage symptoms and prevent worsening, but they do not reduce or shrink the hernia itself.

References

1. https://www.dbth.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/WPR31230-hiatus-hernia.pdf

2. https://madeforthismoment.asahq.org/anesthesia-101/effects-of-anesthesia/

3. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/inguinal-hernia-repair/recovery/

4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499927/#_article-17021_s14_

5. https://ales.amegroups.org/article/view/6483/html

6. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/umbilical-hernia-repair/recovery/

7. https://www.guysandstthomas.nhs.uk/health-information/hernia-repair/recovery-after-surgery-hernia-repair

8. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20048505/

9. https://www.health.harvard.edu/nutrition/high-protein-foods-the-best-protein-sources-to-include-in-a-healthy-diet

10. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4421088/