By Mindy Antimie, MS, RDN
Swelling is a common side effect of the inflammatory response. When we undergo an operation, it is natural for our immune system to respond to the area with plenty of fluid, cells, and proteins. These components enter your tissues to repair damage, which is a good thing. However, for some people, the fluid can get “stuck” there and cause persistent swelling. You can support your immune system and even help lower swelling by making some dietary changes.
Water and Salt
It might seem counterintuitive to drink more water when swollen. However, the swelling from an operation happens because the water is “trapped” in your tissues. Getting enough fluids is vital to keeping your cells functioning. Your body is 50-60% water, after all. At minimum, you should drink 2 liters of water per day, but even more is likely needed.
Eating less salt can help with swelling. Salt and water bind to each other and create a complex system of fluid balance that keeps your body healthy. Avoiding the “salty six” which are the foods highest in salt can lower the pressure. The salty six are bread/rolls, cold cuts/cured meat, pizza, soup, tacos/burritos, and sandwiches.
Most of the salt in our diets comes from using packaged foods or from dining out. Making food at home and being able to control your salt can help drastically. You can find out how to spice your food without salt here.
Supporting the Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system houses and carries certain immune cells, such as macrophages, to the site of repair. You may have felt your lymphatic system before, like when your lymph nodes are swollen during a cold. It is a key part of our immune system and has a major role in fluid balance. When there is a build-up of fluid in our tissues, the lymphatic vessels help to carry that fluid away.
There is some evidence that an anti-inflammatory diet high in antioxidants can aid the lymph system. You can read more about the top 5 anti-inflammatory foods to include in your diet. Avoiding refined carbohydrates and eating mostly protein and plants will ensure you get the nutrient density you need.
Including complex carbohydrates, such as quinoa, legumes, root vegetables, and whole grains will support a high-fiber diet. Fiber directly interacts with your gut microbiome. These good bacteria send out short-chain fatty acids. These fats communicate with your immune system and regulate it.
Avoiding highly inflammatory food such as alcohol, fried foods, processed meat, and excess sugar can help calm the immune system.
Last Thoughts
Nutrition plays a role in regulating and supporting your immune system. Making these dietary changes can not only help with post-op swelling but has a myriad of other health benefits. It can be important to combine these changes with physical activity to counteract fluid accumulation.
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used without the advice of your doctor and/or medical team. It does not claim to treat or cure health conditions.
