After jaw surgery, your oral surgeon will recommend a strict liquid diet for several weeks as you heal. With these restrictions, it can be difficult to get the nutrients you need, causing numerous health concerns and slowing your healing. Fortunately, there are still plenty of ways to stay healthy. Here are five foods to enjoy, even if you’re on a restricted diet. 

What Should You Eat While Recovering From Jaw Surgery?

1. Eggs

Eggs can be added to many dishes for a boost of protein and flavor. Scrambled eggs can be blended with milk, thin gravy, or another desirable fluid to get them to a consistency that’s easy to swallow. You can add cheeses, cooked rice, cooked ground sausage, and steamed peppers to create a custom omelet, too.

2. Blended Soups

Soups are already mostly liquid, so they’re a variable, quick, and delicious way to get your necessary vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Use a hand blender to puree a multitude of soups into a thin liquid. You can also create your own varieties with steamed vegetables, soft beans, various broths, and a range of seasonings. Tender meats can be blended into soups, too, such as boiled chicken that’s been shredded, or cooked ground beef.

3. Smoothies

When loaded with fruits and vegetables, smoothies are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and other essential nutrients. Be sure to thoroughly blend all ingredients, and avoid fruits with small seeds or particles. Use enough liquid so that the smoothie is a very thin consistency. Coconut milk, cottage cheese, ice cream, and yogurt are all delicious additions that will add depth of flavor.

4. Peanut Butter

Peanut butter is crucial to maintaining a healthy diet when you’re recovering from jaw surgery. Since your meat intake will be limited, you’ll need to get protein from other sources, and peanut butter provides healthy proteins and lean fats. It can be blended into smoothies, chocolate milk, ice cream, and more on days when you need a boost. Always use creamy, never crunchy, so you don’t disrupt the healing process.

5. Baby Food

If all else fails, baby food will meet some of your dietary needs after oral surgery. Its consistency is thin enough that it’s easy to consume, and it can be easily blended into more palatable options if it needs a smoother consistency. Experiment with different flavors and combinations, and you might be surprised at how good this meal can be. 

If you need jaw surgery, Oral Surgery Associates of Central Georgia in Warner Robins will deliver a positive, soothing experience. For more than 20 years, their team has provided comprehensive oral surgery services, including wisdom tooth removal, dental implants, facial trauma repair, and more. They understand that these procedures can be stressful, which is why they take the time to answer any questions regarding surgery, how to prepare beforehand, as well as what to expect after, including diet recommendations. Read answers to frequently asked questions online, or call (478) 971-8811 to schedule a consultation today.