Following tonsillectomy, eating soft foods may help soothe your throat. But it’s important to drink plenty of liquids and return to your typical diet as soon as possible.
Tonsillectomy is one of the
Since this surgery may make eating and drinking painful for a while, you may choose to eat softer foods.
However, according to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, most children may be able to follow their typical diet immediately as long as it doesn’t cause them pain.
Read on to learn more about what foods and drinks may help you feel better after a tonsillectomy.
Your otolaryngologist (ENT doctor) will give you instructions about what to do and what to eat after a tonsillectomy. It’s important to follow your doctor’s or healthcare professional’s specific guidelines.
Since dehydration is a concern following tonsillectomy, it’s important to drink plenty of liquids.
Avoid red or dark-colored liquids. Some people may vomit following surgery. So drinking red or darker liquids can make it more difficult to know if you have blood in your vomit and need to see your doctor.
For the first couple of days postsurgery, the following types of foods and drinks may help:
Beverages
These drinks may be good options after you’ve had your tonsils out:
- water
- clear or pale juices
- smoothies
- sports drinks (non-red)
For something savory, try heating a cup of broth. Bone broth is an especially good choice since it provides protein, a nutrient that’s harder to get in liquids. It’s probably a good idea to avoid acid drinks like orange juice since they may burn or sting your throat.
Foods
Throat pain is one of the most widely reported side effects after a tonsillectomy. While some research suggests that it’s not necessary to eat cold foods after tonsillectomy, some people report eating cool, soft foods helps them feel better.
It’s important for people to start eating a typical diet as soon as possible following a tonsillectomy, as this may help them heal faster. Traditionally, people were told they could eat all the ice cream they wanted after having their tonsils out. Though this sounds fun, it’s not necessary.
Drinking plenty of liquids and staying well-hydrated is important during this time.
If you’re looking for softer food ideas, here are a few to try:
Frozen treats
The cliché about getting to eat ice cream after a tonsillectomy is largely true. But if you choose to eat frozen treats like popsicles, sorbet, gelato, or ice cream, look for options without any hard mix-ins like nuts or hard candy.
To keep blood sugar from spiking, consider adding a source of protein or fiber to a sweet treat. This may include making a milkshake with peanut butter or blending up a smoothie with frozen fruit.
Other soft foods
Other soft-textured foods you may want to eat include things like:
- custard
- gelatin
- yogurt
- mashed white or sweet potatoes
- applesauce
- oatmeal
Soft foods with a bit more bulk include foods like:
- canned fruits
- scrambled eggs
- well-cooked pasta
- white bread and soft baked goods (like pancakes or quick breads)
While firmer foods may help your throat heal, you may want to avoid very hard foods or foods that may have sharp edges, such as:
- nuts
- crackers
- pretzels
- chips
- popcorn
- raw vegetables
- very crunchy cereal
For some people, acidic foods can also be a source of pain after tonsil surgery. This includes:
- tomato-based products like pizza or pasta sauce
- citrus fruits and their juices
- spicy dishes like:
- kimchi
- salsa
- curries
Be sure to avoid anything scalding hot, as well.
Your ENT can best instruct you on when it’s OK to return to your usual diet after a tonsillectomy. For most people, though, doctors recommend gradually resuming a regular diet as soon as possible.
Diet is an important part of your tonsillectomy recovery. You may want to eat soft foods that are either cooling or, in some cases, mildly warming. Be sure to drink plenty of liquids to avoid dehydration while you heal.
Eating nutritious, appropriate foods can help your recovery go smoothly.