What Should Patients with Fractures Eat?
May 16, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lin Yunfei
Introduction
In the early stage of fracture, patients should drink plenty of water and consume easily digestible foods. Immediately following a fracture, patients often experience both psychological stress and physical swelling and pain; this dual impact frequently leads to loss of appetite and constipation—especially among those required to remain bedridden. To ensure adequate nutrition and prevent constipation during the initial phase of fracture recovery, patients may consume ample liquid or semi-liquid foods, such as fish soup, egg drop soup, and vegetable juice—options rich in protein and vitamins.
Many people, I believe, have experienced bone fractures in daily life—a painful ordeal. Since fracture recovery often requires prolonged rest and limits physical activity, most patients eagerly anticipate a swift return to health and normal life. To support fracture healing, dietary adjustments play an important role. So, what should patients eat after a fracture?
What Should Fracture Patients Eat?
In the early stage following a fracture, patients should drink plenty of water and consume easily digestible foods. Immediately after injury, patients often experience both psychological stress and physical swelling and pain—this dual burden commonly leads to reduced appetite and constipation, especially among those required to remain immobile. To replenish nutrients and prevent constipation, consuming ample liquid or semi-liquid foods is recommended during this initial phase. Examples include nutrient-rich broths such as fish soup, egg drop soup, and vegetable juices—all high in protein and vitamins. The period within the first 3–4 weeks post-fracture represents the most critical window for bone healing; during this time, patients should prioritize highly nutritious foods.
Firstly, patients must ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D. Good dietary sources include soy products, milk, shrimp, and kelp. Secondly, foods rich in collagen are beneficial. Common examples include pig trotters, tremella fungus soup, chicken feet, and animal kidneys. During this phase, localized redness, swelling, and pain may persist; in addition to topical anti-inflammatory medications, adding an appropriate amount of notoginseng powder (San Qi) to soups may be helpful.
In the later stage of recovery, the body has entered the rehabilitation phase, and patients can generally resume normal eating patterns. Nevertheless, it remains important to emphasize fresh vegetables and fruits in the diet to help prevent constipation. We hope this information proves helpful to you!
