Last Updated on September 27, 2024 by Helena Akter
A sore throat after tonsillectomy? It’s no surprise! However, choosing the right foods can make a big difference in your recovery. Now, you might be wondering what to eat after tonsillectomy?
Drink water! Because you can’t eat anything for 12 hours after the surgery, it’s better to even fast for 24 hours. Then, start with soft and hydrating foods like popsicles, Jello, and pureed fruits after a tonsillectomy. Also, include nutrient-rich soups, mashed vegetables, eggs, and soft cereals.
But before you explore more recovery treats, let’s talk about what to expect after surgery, especially if your little one is the patient. We’ll walk you through tonsil recovery for kids, making things smooth for everyone.
Key Takeaways
- Tonsillectomy: It’s a common surgery to remove tonsils, often performed for frequent infections, sleep apnea, or enlarged tonsils.
- Recovery Period: Recovery involves sore throat, earache, and difficulty swallowing for 2-3 weeks. Soft foods, plenty of fluids, and pain medication are recommended.
- Foods to Eat: Drink enough water within the first 24 hours. Focus on soft, cool, and easy-to-swallow foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and soups during healing. Don’t eat high-fiber things for a while. Also, avoid spicy, acidic, and crunchy things.
- Child Care: Gentle care for children post-surgery includes pain meds, and hydration with fluids like popsicles, and soft foods. Call the doctor if their fever reaches 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.
Why Might I Need a Tonsillectomy?
A tonsillectomy is a common surgery to remove the tonsils. They’re the lymph tissues at the back of your throat. And this surgery is quite common.
According to the National Institutes of Health, over 500,000 children under 15 have this procedure each year.
Here’s why you might need one —
- Constant sore throat that just won’t go away
- Frequent infections and earaches
- Tonsils that get so big they make swallowing difficult
- Strep throat that keeps coming back, no matter the treatment
- Swollen glands in your neck due to tonsillitis
- Sleep apnea caused by enlarged tonsils blocking your airway
If you have any of these issues, an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctor can assess your situation and see if a tonsillectomy is the right solution for you.
After Tonsillectomy: What to Expect
Getting your tonsils out can be a drag, but knowing what to expect helps! Here’s a breakdown of what you might feel and how to manage it —
- Ear Pain and Sore Throat: It’s normal and can last for a week or two. Your ears might ache along with your throat.
- Voice Changes and White Patches: Your voice might sound a little strange at first. Don’t worry, it’ll go back to normal soon. You might also see white patches in your throat. These are just scabs and not a sign of infection.
- Breathing and Snoring: You might snore more or breathe through your mouth for a while. In that case, a humidifier can help ease this discomfort.
- Bleeding and Swallowing: Swallowing more often is normal, but if you see bright red blood, call your doctor.
- Bad Breath and Fatigue: It’s normal to feel tired and have bad breath for up to 2 weeks.
- Weight Loss and Diets: Eating might be uncomfortable at first, so you might lose some weight temporarily. Hence, focus on drinking plenty of fluids.
Extra Tips —
- In the case of children, keep a close eye on them after surgery.
- Avoid blowing the nose if your adenoids are removed along with your tonsils.
- Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully for a smooth recovery.
What Foods Are Good After a Tonsillectomy?
After tonsil surgery, what foods to eat after tonsillectomy can be a bit tricky! In fact, it’s recommended not to eat for the first 12 hours. Also, it’s best if you can fast for a whole day. This break is important!
See, your stomach needs to rest and heal while the anesthesia wears off. Plus, no-food time lets your nasal tissues recover after stitches.
But don’t worry, there are delicious ways to get the nutrients you need. Here are some —
Hydrating and Cooling Options
Your throat needs to be cooled right now, so hydration is the key. It helps you to reduce swelling, and pain and saves you from the effects of dehydration.
The University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) recommends drinks like Gatorade, citrus-free juices, and fruit punch (non-citrus) to keep you hydrated.
Take a look at these options —
- Popsicles: These icy treats numb your throat, provide fluids, and are a fun way to stay hydrated.
- Jello: This jiggly snack is easily digestible and cooling on a sore throat.
- Ice Cream (optional): Soft and cold, ice cream can soothe a sore throat. Plus, it can satisfy your sweet tooth (check with your doctor first if you have any dairy concerns).
Fruit
Fruit is one of the best foods after tonsillectomy. You can get vitamins and minerals after tonsil surgery through them.
But chewing on raw fruit might be uncomfortable. So, here are some easy-to-eat options —
- Stewed or Baked Fruits: Cooking softens apples, bananas, pears, and rhubarb, making them easier to swallow. In fact, a single banana is loaded with almost 450 milligrams of potassium.
- Pureed Fruit: Skip the prep work and grab store-bought applesauce or other pureed fruits. They’re gentle on your throat and full of nutrition!
Vegetables
Did you know? Lots of kids (almost half!) skip their daily vegetables according to 2021 data. But veggies are packed with vitamins and minerals to help your child grow strong!
They can even be yummy, especially if your little one has a sore mouth.
- Mashed: Mash potatoes, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin. They’re already easy to chew, and you can even hide other mashed veggies in there if your child isn’t a fan! A little milk and butter make it extra creamy and filling.
- Steamed Up: Steaming or microwaving veggies keeps all their good-for-you nutrients inside. Boiling works too, especially for making them nice and soft. Cook them until they’re fork-tender, then maybe add some cheese!
- Other Veggies: Soft potatoes, pumpkin, broccoli florets, carrot sticks, cauliflower bits, mashed peas – anything that gets soft and yummy works! Raw veggies might be a bit tricky for now.
Nutrient-Rich Soups
Considering what foods to eat after tonsillectomy, soups are a lifesaver! They’re warm, and gentle on your throat. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients to help your little one feel better.
- Chicken Noodle Soup: This classic combines soft noodles and a comforting broth to nourish your body.
- Easy Swallows: Puréed soups, like broccoli cheese, butternut squash, or roasted tomato, make eating easy.
Protein
During recovery, you must take a proper amount of protein. Besides, The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) advises that toddlers aged 1 to 3 should eat two servings of protein daily.
That said, here are some easy-to-eat protein options to keep you strong:
- Eggs: Boiled, scrambled, or poached, they’re protein-packed and gentle on your throat. Make an omelet for a veggie and dairy boost.
- Minced Meat: Once your little one feels better, try cooked, ground chicken, beef, or pork mixed with sauce over well-cooked pasta.
- Sweet Treats: Creamy custards, mousses, and puddings deliciously offer protein and calcium. Also, you can look for pre-made options at your supermarket.
- Soft Fish: Opt for unbattered fish, cooked until very soft and flakey. Most importantly, remove any bones and avoid dryness.
- Mashed Beans & Legumes: You can mash these protein sources for a smooth consistency.
- Tofu: This versatile soy-based food can be a good choice, but start with small amounts.
- Nut Butters: Try a small amount of peanut butter spread on soft bread for a protein boost. Remember to check for nut allergies first.
Grains
Grains are one of the indispensable foods to eat after tonsillectomy for growing bodies! They give your child energy, fiber to keep things moving smoothly (especially helpful with pain meds).
However, you must give high-fiber foods after 24 hours, meanwhile, you should give them our mentioned hydrating options.
We’ve got some easy choices —
- Soft Pasta: Cooked well and served with a yummy sauce or even canned spaghetti.
- Bread Pockets: Soft bread with the crusts removed. Then, fill them with creamy peanut butter, mashed egg salad, or smooth cream cheese.
- Plain Rice: Simply cooked rice is a gentle and satisfying option.
- Soft Cereals: Choose cereals that get mushy in milk, like shredded wheat or oatmeal with a touch of honey. Also, opt for cereals with bran flakes or raisins for added fiber and fun.
What Foods Should You Avoid After a Tonsillectomy?
After tonsil surgery, you must focus on gentle foods that are easy to swallow. So, take a break from these things —
- Crunchy and Sharp: Chips, crackers, and cold cereal might irritate your throat. So, hold off until you’re feeling better.
- Dairy on a Full Stomach: If nausea is a bother, skip dairy for a bit. Instead, try popsicles or fruit ices instead of ice cream.
- Fizzy Drinks: The bubbles can be uncomfortable to swallow. Opt for flat water or wait for the fizz to settle in soda.
- Citrus Zingers: Oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits might sting your throat. Wait a while before introducing them back into your diet.
- Spicy Sizzlers: Your throat will likely be sensitive, so hold off on the hot peppers and spicy dishes for a while.
How To Take Care of Children After Tonsillectomy?
Tonsils are commonly taken out in kids. After surgery, your child’s throat, ears, and neck might be sore for 2 to 3 weeks. To ease this pain, give them medicine regularly for 2 to 4 days, even if they seem okay.
Moreover, remember what we said about not eating for 12 hours after surgery. Along with that, we’ve outlined some practical tips for taking care of your children post-tonsil removal
Sore Throat and Bad Breath
It’s normal for your child to have bad breath for a few weeks. So, you better encourage your kid to brush gently after the first day can help.
Staying Hydrated
Encourage your child to drink plenty of fluids, even if they don’t feel like it. In that case, you can offer rewards like screen time or reading for good progress. It’d be best to give liquids like —
- Apple juice
- Broth
- Sports drinks (diluted!)
- Popsicles
- Water
Soft Foods for Healing
After 24 hours, once your child drinks well, offer soft foods like yogurt, cooked pasta, mashed potatoes, and smoothies. In fact, yogurt can boost your child’s immune system, too.
Continue this soft diet for 1 to 2 weeks, cutting food into small pieces and reminding them to chew well.
What to Avoid
Skip crunchy foods (chips) and sharp foods that could irritate the healing throat. Also, avoid red-colored drinks and popsicles that might look like blood. Keep in mind that citrus fruits and juices can sting, so offer them later.
Call the Doctor
If your child’s temperature reaches 101°F (38.3°C) or higher, it could be a sign of infection. Call your doctor right away.
Tips to Treat Painful Swallowing After a Tonsillectomy
It’s normal for your child to have trouble swallowing after tonsils are removed. This can make eating and drinking uncomfortable. However, there are ways to ease the pain and help them heal.
Here’s what you can do —
- Take any prescribed pain medication and keep over-the-counter pain relievers on hand.
- Offer food and drinks when the pain medication is strongest, usually 30-45 minutes after taking it.
- According to a study, a spoonful of honey with pain medication might help numb the throat. Even some studies suggest honey might even promote healing!
- Eat soft foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and smoothies for at least 3 weeks after surgery. The same goes for your kid. Even if your child feels better, hard foods can irritate the healing area.
- Avoid strenuous activity for the first few days. According to UMMC, it’s best to relax at home for at least 48 hours. Most people can return to work after 10 days, but talk to your doctor for specific advice.
- Encourage your child to avoid forceful coughing or throat clearing, as this can irritate the surgical site.
- To ease discomfort and promote healing, gently gargle with warm salt water 4 times a day. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt into an 8-ounce glass of warm water.
Final Words about What Foods to Eat After Tonsillectomy
In conclusion, knowing what foods to eat after a tonsillectomy is vital for a smooth recovery. To soothe your sore throat, start with cool and hydrating options like popsicles and Jell-O.
As you feel better, include soft and easy-to-swallow options like mashed fruits and vegetables into your diet. Don’t forget about protein! Soft-cooked eggs, and flaked fish are all excellent choices. To keep things interesting, try warm and comforting soups packed with vitamins.
Remember to avoid anything crunchy, spicy, or citrusy that might irritate your throat. Most importantly, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids to help your body heal faster.
FAQs
Is Sprite good after a Tonsillectomy?
No, it might not be good after a tonsillectomy. While you can drink Sprite, the sugar and carbonation can worsen throat pain and irritation. It’s better to choose nutrient-rich fluids that help recovery and soothe your throat.
Can you eat eggs after a Tonsillectomy?
Yes, you can eat eggs after a tonsillectomy. Initially, stick to foods that don’t require chewing, but after a few days, you can enjoy soft, chewy foods such as soup, soft bread, and scrambled eggs.
How long does it take to recover from a tonsillectomy?
It takes about 10 days to return to work after a tonsillectomy. Meanwhile, take rest at home for the first 48 hours and gradually increase activity as you regain strength. Avoid vigorous activities for 14 days to ensure proper healing.
Can I eat rice after a tonsillectomy?
Yes, you can eat rice after a tonsillectomy. Just ensure it’s cooked well so it’s easy to swallow and gentle on your throat.
When can you return to a normal diet after a tonsillectomy?
You can return to a normal diet about 2 weeks after a tonsillectomy. Staying hydrated and eating nutritious foods will help you heal. As you feel better, gradually reintroduce a wider variety of foods.
