What to Eat After a Tonsillectomy

So you are scheduled to have your tonsils out and you are wondering what to eat after a tonsillectomy so that you can stock the fridge before your big day. Of course, your doctor can give you some ideas on what you should eat, but if you want to buy a few items before your surgery, the following suggestions are some of the easiest foods to eat after a tonsillectomy.

Fluids

One of the most important things you can do after your tonsillectomy is to stay hydrated, because dehydration can worsen throat pain. Water is a good choice, as is a sports drink that contains electrolytes. Apple juice is also a good choice. If you feel like you need to have a soda, choose clear sodas that are flat (have lost their carbonation). Hot liquids don't feel good on the throat after a tonsillectomy, and neither do drinks that are too cold. If you take a beverage directly out of the refrigerator, it is a good idea to let it sit out at room temperature for a while before drinking it. Although some say they like very cold beverages after a tonsillectomy, cool, not cold liquids, feel the best for most people.

Ice Cream

Eating ice cream feels good after a tonsillectomy because ice cream is soft and cool. However, too much ice cream can cause mucus production, which may cause discomfort after a tonsillectomy. The mucus can become gooey, which can make swallowing difficult and perhaps painful. Enjoy some ice cream, but limit your intake immediately after a tonsillectomy if mucus production becomes a problem.

Popsicles and Sherbet

Popsicles and sherbet are two great food choices to eat after a tonsillectomy. Banana and root beer are good flavors. The citrus flavors may sting, so avoid those. Neither of these cold treats causes the mucus buildup that ice cream may cause, so they are good alternatives.

Other Bland Soft Foods

After you get bored with the popsicles and sherbet, you can move on to other bland soft foods after a tonsillectomy. Good choices at first include Jell-O, pudding, applesauce and soups. Scrambled eggs can give you protein that your body needs. Next, you can move on to well-cooked macaroni and cheese, and mashed potatoes.

Foods to Avoid

Avoid foods that are crispy or have sharp edges, such as potato chips or pizza, after your tonsillectomy. This is because a sharp edge on a chip or slice of pizza can cut the throat, causing bleeding. It is a good idea to avoid popcorn as well, as the kernels can get caught in the throat. You should also avoid sour or acidic foods and drinks, such as orange juice, lemonade and tomato juice, because they will sting the back of your throat. Stay away from spicy foods too until your tonsillectomy has healed.