Can patients with appendicitis eat meat?
Jun 17, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
After the acute phase of appendicitis has passed, or when symptoms of chronic appendicitis have subsided and the patient has entered the recovery stage, moderate meat consumption can be beneficial. Meat is rich in protein and various vitamins, which help the body recover and enhance immunity. However, easily digestible lean meats such as chicken and fish should be selected, and cooking methods such as steaming or boiling are recommended. Greasy and high-fat red meats should be avoided.
Whether patients with appendicitis can eat meat should be determined according to different stages of the illness. If the patient is in a stable phase, meat can usually be consumed in moderation. However, if the patient is in an acute发作期 (acute attack phase), eating meat is not recommended. Specific situations are as follows:
If the patient is in the stable phase of appendicitis and the inflammation has been initially controlled, during the recovery period when gastrointestinal function has recovered, the patient may consume moderate amounts of easily digestible lean meats, such as chicken breast or lean pork, under a doctor's guidance. These meats are rich in protein and trace elements, which are essential nutrients for recovery, helping to enhance the body's resistance and promote the repair of damaged tissues.
If the patient is in the acute发作期 (acute attack phase) of appendicitis, symptoms such as abdominal pain and fever may appear. At this time, the function of the digestive system is weakened, making it unsuitable to consume hard-to-digest foods, including meat. The patient should mainly consume liquid or semi-liquid foods, such as rice water, porridge, etc., and gradually transition back to a normal diet after the symptoms subside.
In daily life, patients with appendicitis should maintain a bland diet and avoid consuming spicy, greasy, or hard-to-digest foods.
