How to eat after surgery for cancer of the oesophagus or stomach

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07/14/23

For more information about eating after oesophagus or stomach surgery go to the Cancer Research UK website http://www.cancerresearchuk.or....g/about-cancer/type/
Eating after surgery to your oesophagus or stomach can mean that when and how you eat is different. So, what changes do you need to make to carry on enjoying food and stay well? Find out from a specialist dietician about what you need to do to in this video.
After your operation when you are recovering in hospital, you will have plenty of support from your dietician. You will be able to gradually build up what you eat and drink. However when you go home things may be more difficult. The amount of food and drink you can manage at any one time will be less. In general 6-7 small meals a day is best. Have a selection of foods that are ready prepared to eat whenever you fancy them.

How you should eat:
- Make sure you are relaxed and calm
- Chew your food
- Take it slowly
- Sit upright
- Don't lie down to soon after eating
- Drinks can be filling so avoid drinking from 15 to 30 minutes before eating

Generally you can continue eating what you like but in smaller portions. Making a few small changes can avoid weight loss and poor appetite.

Suggested changes:
- Graze on high energy foods throughout the day
- Choose full fat foods
- Avoid food labelled low fat or diet foods

If you're having a problem with reflux, make sure you don't eat too late at night and try sleeping propped up with pillows.

Continue eating and drinking even if you have diarrhoea as this will help to control your bowels and will keep you hydrated. Remember if any of these issues continue for more than a few days contact your doctor or specialist nurse as there are medications you can be given to control the issues.

Bloating, sweating or palpitations can occur when you take on too many sugary foods. This is called Dumping Syndrome. To avoid this, eat smaller portions of sugary foods as part of meal times.

If you are having problems, contact your doctor or dietician.