Savor the Flavor!

One thing post-op patients must learn to do for after surgery is to sloooooow dooooooown while eating! Eating too quickly can lead to one bite too many and that one extra bite will likely result in nausea, possible vomiting, and stomach pain. We have some great tools and information to help ensure you slow down and enjoy your food.

Many patients find it helpful to use smaller utensils or even toddler utensils when eating to aid in taking smaller bites. It is much easier to chew your foods well when it is a smaller bite. Try putting your spoon or fork down between each bite to allow yourself plenty of time to chew well. It is also recommended you chew your food to “mush” or “applesauce” which can mean chewing each small bite about 25-30 times. Taking extra time to chew well can help ensure you slow down and recognize when you’re full and need to stop.

Eating off smaller plates such as saucers or salad plates can also help by limiting the amount of food in front of you. If there is less food you’re less likely to accidently overeat. Try eating your meals at the dinner table to avoid distractions which may cause you to miss your “I’m full” cue. Many patients report some type of a cue or signal from their bodies that tells them they’ve had enough. Signals such as a small hiccup, small burp, sneeze, nose itch, or just a “certain feeling” in their stomach are some patients have mentioned. Learning to recognize your signal or cue will take time and attention. Savor the flavor and enjoy the flavor of each bite you take! You may encounter foods tasting differently than you remember. Enjoy exploring foods you may now enjoy that you haven’t in the past.

Eating in a social setting can be challenging after surgery. Taking time to learn your “I’m full” cue can allow you to eat with friends or family and avoid potentially getting sick or feeling uncomfortable. Enjoy the conversation but don’t overdo it on the food!