Can patients with appendicitis eat fish after surgery?
Jun 16, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
If more than 5–7 days have passed since surgery, and the patient has resumed normal bowel movements and flatus passage without discomfort such as abdominal pain or distension, indicating recovery of gastrointestinal motility, fish meat may be consumed in moderation. Fish meat is rich in high-quality protein and unsaturated fatty acids; protein promotes wound healing, while unsaturated fatty acids aid in physical recovery. Fish with fewer bones, such as sea bass or snakehead fish, are recommended, and cooking methods should primarily include steaming or boiling.
Whether patients with appendicitis can eat fish after surgery depends on their recovery stage and gastrointestinal function. Fish may be consumed in moderate amounts when recovery is progressing well and gastrointestinal function is normal. However, it is not recommended during the early postoperative period or if gastrointestinal function is weak. If in doubt, it is advisable to consult a doctor in advance. Detailed explanation is as follows:
If more than 5–7 days have passed since surgery, and the patient has resumed normal bowel movements and flatus without discomfort such as abdominal pain or bloating, indicating that gastrointestinal motility has recovered, fish can be consumed in moderate amounts. Fish is rich in high-quality protein and unsaturated fatty acids; protein promotes wound healing, while unsaturated fatty acids aid in recovery. Fish with fewer bones, such as sea bass or snakehead fish, are preferred. Cooking methods should primarily include steaming or boiling, avoiding frying or spicy seasonings. Each serving should be limited to about 100 grams.
During the first 1–3 days after appendectomy, intestinal function has not fully recovered. Eating fish at this stage may be difficult to digest and could increase the burden on the gastrointestinal tract, potentially causing nausea, vomiting, bloating, or other symptoms. Additionally, if the patient is allergic to fish, or experiences indigestion or diarrhea after surgery, eating fish may worsen these symptoms. In such cases, fish consumption should be postponed until gastrointestinal function has fully recovered.
After appendectomy, fish consumption should follow the pace of recovery. Start with small amounts of lightly cooked fish and monitor for any gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. If any abnormalities occur, stop consumption immediately. Gradually transition the daily diet from liquid to semi-liquid food, and then to regular meals to ensure adequate nutrition for recovery.
