What Not To Eat After Hernia Surgeries
Read time: 9 mins
Hernia surgery is a common procedure used to repair a weakened or damaged area of muscle or tissue. The most frequently treated hernias include hiatus hernias, which occur where the stomach pushes up into the chest through the diaphragm, and abdominal or inguinal hernias, which happen in the lower abdominal wall or groin.
Although these conditions are treated through different types of surgery, recovery in both cases requires care, patience, and a diet that helps the body heal. What you eat and avoid in the weeks after surgery can make a meaningful difference to how comfortable and smooth your recovery is.
What Not to Eat After Hiatus Hernia Surgery
After hiatus hernia surgery, the digestive system, particularly the oesophagus and stomach needs time to heal. Swelling near the lower oesophageal sphincter and changes to the diaphragm area can make it more difficult to keep stomach acid in place. Because of this, certain foods can trigger reflux, heartburn, and irritation, slowing your recovery and making it more uncomfortable.
A careful, staged diet helps prevent acid reflux, supports digestion, and allows your body to heal gently.
Dietary Timeline: Hiatus Hernia Surgery
| Time Frame | Dietary Focus | Foods to Include | Foods to Avoid |
| 12–24 hours | Clear liquids only to prevent nausea and reduce pressure on the healing area. | Water, apple juice, herbal teas, broth | Solid foods, caffeine, citrus juice |
| Week One | Gradually introduce soft, low-acid foods. Focus on small, frequent meals to ease digestion. | Pureed vegetables, plain yoghurt, soft cereals, scrambled eggs | Tomatoes, spicy foods, citrus, coffee, chocolate |
| Weeks Two–Three | Continue soft, bland foods. Avoid foods that cause gas or reflux. | Mashed potatoes, porridge, stewed apples, soups | Fizzy drinks, onions, garlic, fried foods, peppermint |
| Weeks Four–Five | Reintroduce mild solid foods, monitor tolerance. Eat slowly and avoid lying down after meals. | Whole wheat pasta, bananas, soft vegetables | Acidic sauces, fatty meats, alcohol |
| Week Six and Beyond | Gradual return to normal diet if tolerated, still avoiding reflux triggers. | Lean proteins, mild cheeses, whole fruits | Spicy dishes, processed snacks, caffeine-heavy drinks |
Why Certain Foods Matter After Hiatus Hernia Surgery
During recovery, it’s important to avoid foods that relax the lower oesophageal sphincter or increase acid production, as these can trigger reflux. Acid reflux not only causes discomfort but can also delay healing by irritating the surgical site.
Top foods to avoid:
- Fried and fatty foods
- Tomatoes and tomato sauces
- Citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, grapefruits)
- Spicy dishes
- Caffeine and fizzy drinks
- Chocolate and peppermint
- Alcohol
Tips for Smooth Recovery
- Eat upright and stay upright for 30–60 minutes after meals.
- Have small, frequent meals throughout the day.
- Avoid eating late at night.
- Sip water rather than drinking large amounts at once.
- Avoid tight clothing around your abdomen.
What Not to Eat After Abdominal or Inguinal Hernia Surgery
After abdominal or inguinal hernia surgery, the key focus is to avoid any strain on the healing area. This means managing constipation, reducing bloating, and gently reintroducing foods that are easy to digest. Since pain relief medication and reduced movement can slow your gut, diet plays a big role in how comfortable and quick your recovery will be.
Foods that are hard to digest or cause gas can increase abdominal pressure, something that’s best avoided in the early stages of healing.
Dietary Timeline: Abdominal/Inguinal Hernia Surgery
| Time Frame | Dietary Focus | Foods to Include | Foods to Avoid |
| 12–24 hours | Begin with clear liquids to prevent nausea and keep hydrated. | Water, broth, diluted juice, herbal teas | Solid food, caffeinated drinks |
| Week One | Soft, non-irritating foods in small portions. Aim to avoid constipation and discomfort. | Creamed soups, mashed potatoes, scrambled eggs, porridge | Red meat, dry bread, caffeine, strong spices |
| Weeks Two–Three | Slowly introduce fibre to help digestion, especially if on painkillers. | Well-cooked vegetables, stewed fruits, soft cereals | Beans, broccoli, cabbage, dry or crunchy foods |
| Weeks Four–Five | More variety can be introduced, focusing on gentle, moist foods. | Cooked grains, lean chicken, bananas, soft pasta | Tough meats, large portions, acidic sauces |
| Week Six and Beyond | A balanced, high-fibre diet can resume, with careful monitoring of any discomfort. | Whole grains, vegetables, pulses in moderation | Fried foods, large fibrous meals, fizzy drinks if bloating persists |
Why Food Matters After Abdominal Hernia Repair
Surgery in the abdominal area can make your body sensitive to pressure from within. If food causes bloating or slows digestion, it can put unnecessary strain on the healing muscles. Foods that are difficult to pass through the gut, or those that increase gas are best avoided until your digestive system is fully back on track.
Top foods to avoid:
- Beans and lentils (initially)
- Cruciferous vegetables (broccoli, cauliflower)
- High-fat or fried items
- Processed snacks and crisps
- White bread and dense pastries
- Sugary treats in excess
Tips for Comfortable Recovery
- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
- Add fibre slowly to avoid bloating.
- Eat smaller meals more often.
- Move gently (like short walks) to keep digestion moving.
- Avoid straining when going to the toilet.
Why Your Post-Surgery Diet Matters
After hernia surgery, the digestive system is often sensitive due to the effects of anaesthesia, fasting, and surgical adjustments. Healing tissues, particularly around the oesophagus or abdominal wall, are vulnerable to irritation from certain foods. Straining, bloating, reflux, or constipation can all increase pressure on the healing site, making recovery more difficult.
Whether you’ve had hiatus hernia surgery or abdominal/inguinal hernia repair, it’s best to eat foods that are easy to digest, soothing, and gentle on your system. Avoiding trigger foods, especially those that can cause gas or reflux, helps reduce discomfort and allows the body to focus on healing.
Foods That Are Difficult to Digest
Immediately after surgery, your digestive tract will likely be slower than usual. Foods that are fibrous, dry, or heavy can lead to discomfort and put strain on the abdomen. These include:
- Dry breads and crackers
- Tough cuts of meat
- Raw vegetables or salads
- Sugary desserts
- Large or very rich meals
These foods should be reintroduced slowly, once your recovery is progressing well and under the guidance of your doctor.
Foods to Avoid Altogether
After hernia surgery, certain foods should be avoided to prevent discomfort and complications, especially those known to trigger gastroesophageal reflux disease(GERD). GERD is a condition where stomach acid frequently flows back into the oesophagus, causing symptoms such as heartburn and indigestion. This can be particularly problematic after hernia repair, as the surgical area around the lower oesophagus may be sensitive or swollen. Any foods that exacerbate GERD symptoms can put additional pressure on the healing site, increase pain, and potentially slow recovery.
The top ten foods to avoid due to their tendency to worsen GERD symptoms are:
- Fried Foods – These can slow digestion and relax the lower oesophageal sphincter, encouraging acid reflux.
- Spicy Foods – Ingredients like chilli peppers or hot sauces can irritate the stomach lining and trigger reflux.
- Citrus Fruits – Oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are acidic and can lead to reflux symptoms.
- Tomatoes and Tomato Products – Naturally acidic, these are common GERD triggers found in sauces, soups, and pizza.
- Chocolate – Contains caffeine and fat, both of which relax the oesophageal sphincter and cause reflux.
- Caffeinated Drinks – Coffee, tea, and energy drinks stimulate acid production and can increase GERD symptoms.
- Carbonated Beverages – The bubbles can expand in the stomach, leading to pressure and acid reflux.
- Onions and Garlic – Known for their strong flavour, they often worsen heartburn and indigestion.
- Alcohol – It relaxes the oesophageal sphincter and can increase acid production.
- High-Fat Dairy Products – Foods like full-fat milk, cheese, and cream can delay digestion and increase acid reflux.
Avoiding these foods can help minimise pressure and irritation in the abdominal area, creating a smoother recovery environment after hernia surgery.
Importance of a Balanced Diet During Recovery
A well-balanced, gentle diet is one of the most effective tools for supporting your recovery after hernia surgery. Focus on:
Whole grains – for gradual fibre introduction
Stewed fruits and vegetables – for vitamins and easy digestion
Lean proteins – like soft chicken, eggs, or yoghurt
Healthy fats – from sources like olive oil and avocado
Eating this way supports tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and helps maintain bowel regularity, all of which make the recovery process more comfortable.
Looking Forward
Recovering from hernia surgery takes time, and what you eat plays an important part in how you feel each day. Whether you’ve had a hiatus hernia repair or abdominal/inguinal hernia surgery, choosing the right foods and avoiding common triggers can help reduce discomfort, support healing, and make your recovery as smooth as possible.
While it’s natural to have questions, remember you don’t have to go through recovery alone. Your care team is there to guide you, answer your concerns, and help you get back to feeling like yourself again.
If you’re unsure about the next steps or need personalised advice, our Hernia Clinic at St John & St Elizabeth Hospital is here to help. Get in touch with our team to book an appointment or speak to one of our consultants.
Common Questions About Hernia Surgery
Hernia surgery is a routine procedure, but it’s natural to have questions and concerns. Here are answers to some of the most common questions patients ask about hernia surgery.
How long does it take to recover from hernia surgery during the initial recovery period?
Recovery times vary, but most people can return to light activities within a week. Full recovery usually takes between 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the type of hernia repair and your overall health. During this period, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s advice on diet, movement, and wound care to support healing.
Will I experience pain after the surgery?
It is normal to experience some pain or discomfort after hernia surgery, especially in the first few days. Pain levels usually decrease over time and can be managed with medication. If you have any persistent or increasing pain, it’s essential to contact your healthcare provider for advice.
Can a hernia return after surgery?
While hernia repair is highly effective, there is a small chance that a hernia may recur. Following post-operative guidelines, such as avoiding heavy lifting and maintaining a healthy weight, can help reduce this risk. Your surgeon will provide you with specific advice to minimise the chances of recurrence and to help the healing process.
What activities should I avoid after hernia surgery?
In the initial recovery period, you should avoid heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and activities that strain your abdominal muscles. Walking and gentle movement are encouraged, but avoid any activity that causes discomfort. Your doctor will let you know when you can safely resume more vigorous activities.
Posted on: 27 May 2025
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