How long after appendectomy can one eat barbecue?
Jun 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Introduction
If the surgical wound is large, an open abdominal surgery was performed, or gastrointestinal function recovers slowly after surgery, the time required before being able to eat barbecue may be longer, such as 5 to 6 weeks post-operation. Barbecue foods are greasy and difficult to digest; patients with weakened gastrointestinal function may experience increased digestive strain, leading to discomfort such as bloating and abdominal pain if consumed too early. It is advisable to wait until gastrointestinal function has fully recovered before consuming small amounts.
Generally, patients can eat barbecue 4 to 6 weeks after appendectomy. If concerned, it is recommended to consult a doctor in advance. Detailed explanations are as follows:
If the surgical wound is large, open abdominal surgery was performed, or gastrointestinal function recovers slowly after surgery, the time for eating barbecue may be longer, such as 5 to 6 weeks post-operation. Barbecue food tends to be greasy and hard to digest. Patients with weak gastrointestinal function may experience increased digestive burden and discomfort such as abdominal distension and abdominal pain if consuming such food too early. It is advisable to wait until gastrointestinal function has fully recovered before consuming small amounts.
If the surgery was laparoscopic minimally invasive surgery, with small incisions and good postoperative recovery, the time for eating barbecue may be shorter, such as 4 to 5 weeks after surgery. At this time, the patient's gastrointestinal function has mostly recovered, allowing for small amounts of lightly-seasoned barbecue food. However, easily digestible ingredients should be chosen, and spicy or greasy seasonings should be avoided to reduce gastrointestinal irritation.
When eating barbecue, control the portion size, choose light flavors, avoid spicy and greasy ingredients or charred food, and observe gastrointestinal reactions afterward. If discomfort occurs, stop consumption immediately and ensure the body has sufficiently recovered before eating barbecue again.
