Can patients with appendicitis eat tomatoes?
Jun 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yu Yongchao
Introduction
After the acute phase of appendicitis, when the patient has completed surgery or the inflammation is under control and enters the recovery stage, it is acceptable to consume tomatoes in moderation. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and cellulose, which help enhance immunity and promote intestinal motility, aiding postoperative recovery and preventing constipation. However, it is recommended to cook tomatoes thoroughly before consumption to reduce irritation to the digestive tract.
Generally, whether patients with appendicitis can eat tomatoes should be determined according to the stage of the disease. The specific situations are as follows:
After the acute phase of appendicitis, when the patient has completed surgery or inflammation is under control and has entered the recovery phase, tomatoes can be consumed in moderation. Tomatoes are rich in vitamin C and fiber, which help enhance immunity and promote intestinal motility, benefiting postoperative recovery and preventing constipation. However, it is recommended to cook tomatoes thoroughly before consumption to reduce gastrointestinal irritation.
If the patient is in the acute attack phase of appendicitis, strict fasting or consumption of only liquid food is required. Raw tomatoes contain substantial coarse fiber and fruit acid, which may stimulate intestinal motility, worsen abdominal pain, or increase the risk of intestinal obstruction. Additionally, if the patient is allergic to tomatoes, they should not consume them regardless of the disease stage to avoid allergic reactions.
In daily life, patients with appendicitis should avoid eating spicy, greasy, and irritating foods, such as hot pot and spicy hot pot, to prevent aggravating inflammation or irritating the gastrointestinal tract.
