What foods should one consume for recovery from gastrointestinal bleeding?

Sep 30, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I was hospitalized due to gastric bleeding, and now I am in the recovery phase. Doctor, what foods should I eat to aid recovery from gastric bleeding?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua

Nutrition after gastrointestinal bleeding should be adjusted according to the stage of the condition. The following foods may be selected:

Soft and easily digestible foods:

1. Rice porridge: Easily digested, rice porridge provides necessary energy to the body without placing excessive burden on the stomach.

2. Steamed egg custard: Protein aids in tissue repair, and steamed egg custard has a soft texture that is easily digested and absorbed.

3. Cooked vegetables: Such as carrots and pumpkin, which are rich in vitamins and minerals. However, high-fiber vegetables should be avoided to prevent increasing the burden on the gastrointestinal tract.

4. Fruit purees: Such as apple sauce and banana puree. These fruits are rich in vitamin C and potassium, which help in nutritional supplementation and recovery, but highly acidic fruits such as citrus should be avoided.

Avoid irritating foods:

1. Avoid spicy, fried, smoked, and overly sour or sweet foods, as these can irritate the gastric mucosa and worsen stomach discomfort.

2. Reduce intake of coffee, strong tea, and carbonated beverages, as their ingredients may stimulate gastric acid secretion and hinder gastric recovery.

3. Eat small, frequent meals to avoid overeating at once, which can place additional strain on the stomach.