Orthopaedic Surgery: Enhance Your Recovery With These High-Protein Foods Post-Op

According to John Hopkins Medicine, there are several things that you should do following orthopaedic surgery to increase your chances of success and to speed up recovery. This includes things like a careful exercise program and showering instead of bathing. However, one of the most important instructions is eating a high-protein diet to assist with wound healing. If you aren't sure what foods are high in protein, here are some portable (since you may want to eat in your bed!), healthy foods to try:

1. Pumpkin Seeds

Even if it isn't Halloween, pumpkin seeds are a great way to get that protein that your body needs following surgery. In fact, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), a single cup of pumpkin and squash seeds equals roughly 12 grams of protein when they are roasted whole with zero salt.

2. Beef Jerky

Beef jerky is an excellent source of needed protein. In general, according to the USDA, a one-ounce serving will contain nearly 10 grams of protein. That's just for one single piece of beef jerky. The best thing about jerky is that it stays fresh for extended periods of time when it is packed properly. Just try to avoid brands that fill their jerk with sugar and sodium, as neither of these are going to be good for your following surgery – or anytime, for that matter.

3. Nut Butter

Whether you choose almond butter, cashew butter, or even peanut butter, nut butter is jam-packed with protein. Consider using apple slices or celery sticks to dip into it. According to the USDA, you will get double the protein with peanut butter – the smooth or chunky style with no salt added. However, you also get more fat, carbs, and sugar. With almond and cashew butter (plain, no salt added), you will get less of those three things.

4. Edamame Beans

The USDA says that one cup of these unique beans contain almost 17 grams of protein. In order to prepare these beans, you will need to boil a pot of water. Once the water is boiling, throw in the pods and boil for roughly five minutes. Avoid overcooking them because they will get significantly soft and mushy. Drain and cool the beans underneath cold running water. You can use your fingers to shell them. They taste great when paired with soy sauce for dipping.

All of these high-protein foods can very easily be eaten in bed when you simply don't feel like getting up after surgery. Talk with a place like Orthopaedic Associates Of Osceola if you have any questions regarding whether a food is high in protein or whether you are following all of your healing instructions properly.

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