Table of Contents
- The Importance of the “Right” Post-Recovery Diet
- Foods to Eat After Your Upper Endoscopy
- Foods to Avoid After Your Upper Endoscopy
- Additional Tips for a Smooth Recovery
- ColonoscopyAssist: Your Ally in Digestive Wellness
- Final Thoughts
As a patient that had an upper endoscopy (EGD), having an appropriate diet for a few days after your procedure is an important part of your recovery. You have undergone an invasive procedure that may have left your digestive tract feeling sensitive, making you uncomfortable.
This article will provide guidance on foods you can enjoy (and foods to avoid) during this brief recovery period.
The Importance of the “Right” Post-Recovery Diet
The endoscope had likely come in contact with your throat, esophagus, stomach, and upper portion of the small intestine during the upper endoscopy. Although the risk of injury/damage caused by the endoscope is rare, the process does lead to mild abrasion and the discomfort/pain that can result.
By selecting the right foods, you can prevent further discomfort and allow your digestive tract to return to normal. Based on your medical history, your doctor may have additional guidance on your post-recovery diet.
Foods to Eat After Your Upper Endoscopy
Immediately after your procedure, it is good to have clear liquids, like water or broth, that will help you hydrate.
Ideally, soft, bland foods are most beneficial during the day and day after your procedure. As your appetite improves, items like below are ideal:
- applesauce
- bananas
- yogurt
- mashed potatoes
- scrambled eggs
- oatmeal
- pudding
- white rice
As your appetite grows and your discomfort lessens, proteins like chicken or fish are a good addition to your diet. It is also a good idea to eat in small portions. Larger portions that you might normally be used to could cause undue stress on your digestive system and increase the discomfort you are trying to avoid.
Foods to Avoid After Your Upper Endoscopy
Due to your discomfort, avoiding some of these foods may be obvious to stay away from:
- Spicy/Acidic Foods: Strong spices or foods with high-acidity like citrus or tomato should be avoided. They are a likely source of aggravation to a sensitive GI tract.
- Fatty foods: These can slow digestion which can cause indigestion and an uncomfortable fullness or bloating.
- Fried Foods: These can be problematic for a variety of reasons, including:
- high fat content
- low fiber: this impedes the digestive tract from functioning as quickly as ideal, causing a feeling of sluggishness and additional discomfort
- increased risk of acid reflux, making a bad situation of a sensitive digestive tract worse
- inflammation: compounds present in fried foods are a known source of inflammation
- Hard/Crunchy Foods: Items like nuts, raw vegetables, or popcorn not only can aggravate the sore throat you may have from the endoscope but cause further gastric discomfort in your stomach and small intestine.
- Alcohol & Caffeine: Either of these substances can be a source of inflammation and irritate the gastric lining.
Additional Tips for a Smooth Recovery
Some simple steps will help your body readjust:
- Hydration: Dehydration is common after you have engaged in a period of fasting. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Hydration helps support digestion, flushes out toxins, aids nutrient absorption, and aids in electrolyte balance.
- Gradually reintroduce your favorite foods and portions: Follow the guidance in this article about the foods you should eat during your initial recovery. Listen to your body; do you have the appetite for your regular diet and portion sizes after the first day or two post-recovery? Start back to your normal diet and see how you feel. If your normal diet doesn’t cause you any discomfort – congratulations! You have successfully undergone the upper endoscopy and the post-recovery process.
ColonoscopyAssist: Your Ally in Digestive Wellness
ColonoscopyAssist is dedicated to making upper endoscopies and other gastrointestinal procedures accessible and affordable for those without insurance or who are self-paying. Our program supports those committed to digestive wellness by offering affordable screening options. Book your Upper Endoscopy with us today!
Final Thoughts
An upper endoscopy is an invasive procedure. Although it is a far better alternative to surgery, and the likelihood of an injury caused by the endoscope is very rare, having some discomfort after the procedure is normal.
By following the dietary guidelines in this article, and any additional guidance from your doctor, will aid you in making your post-recovery period as smooth and as comfortable as possible. With these steps and tips, you are likely to feel back to normal within several days.
