Health is something we should never ignore—no matter how busy life gets. In today’s fast-paced world, where we are constantly juggling work, family, and other responsibilities, our well-being often takes a backseat. But here’s the truth: neglecting your health can have serious consequences, not just physically but also mentally and emotionally. Ignoring symptoms, skipping check-ups, and eating poorly can turn minor issues into major complications.
Take appendicitis, for example—a sudden and potentially serious condition requiring immediate care. The appendix, a small tube in the lower right abdomen, aids the immune system by fighting infections. When inflamed due to bacterial infections or blockages, it causes intense pain and can become dangerous if untreated.
Poor dietary habits may also increase the risk. If the appendix ruptures, severe complications can arise. Appendicitis mainly affects people aged 10 to 30, especially males. Its symptoms often mimic common stomach issues, leading to misdiagnosis. Quick medical attention is essential to prevent life-threatening consequences.
Let us find out from Dr Amita Jain, a leading laparoscopic surgeon and specialist for appendicitis surgery and treatment in Delhi, talks about what kind of food to consume and what to avoid during appendicitis.
Which Foods Not to Eat During Appendicitis?
- Processed Meats and Fried Food: Processed meats like hot dogs, sausages, and bacon, along with fried foods like French fries and fried chicken, can raise the risk of appendicitis. High in unhealthy fats, sodium, and preservatives, these foods trigger inflammation and digestive issues.
- Foods rich in Cholesterol and Fat: Those of you who enjoy high-fat, high-cholesterol foods like fatty meats, cheese, butter, fried dishes, and rich desserts should be cautious. These foods are difficult to digest, leading to constipation and gut strain, which may worsen appendicitis by increasing inflammation. Moreover, cholesterol-rich foods can contribute to gallstones, potentially blocking the appendix and causing severe complications.
- Say NO to refined carbohydrates and sugary snacks, as studies suggest they may raise the risk of appendicitis. These foods spike blood sugar, trigger inflammation, and disrupt gut bacteria, increasing infection risks. A diet high in processed sugars fosters harmful bacteria, leading to gut imbalances. Moderate intake is fine, but excessive consumption may harm digestion.
- High Lactose Foods: Some studies suggest that dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream may increase the risk of appendicitis. Incomplete lactose digestion can cause bloating, diarrhea, and constipation, leading to appendix inflammation. High-lactose foods may also disrupt gut bacteria balance, increasing infection risk and potential blockages in the appendix.
Which Foods You Can Eat During Appendicitis?
- Buttermilk: Buttermilk is a probiotic that helps reduce inflammation and improve digestion. It also helps detoxify and prevent bacterial growth in the appendix.
- Turmeric: The most common ingredient of Indian kitchens, turmeric, has powerful antimicrobial properties that help fight infections, reducing inflammation and pain in the appendix. It can be consumed raw, with jaggery, or in warm milk or buttermilk for relief.
- Fenugreek Seeds: Fenugreek seeds are beneficial for appendicitis as they reduce constipation, ease bowel movements, and help manage pain and inflammation by flushing out toxins and waste from the body.
- Fibre-rich Food: Add more fiber to your diet with foods like leafy vegetables, whole grains, fresh fruits, oats, and boiled sprouts. These are easy to digest and help with constipation, benefiting appendicitis recovery.
- Ginger: Ginger is great for appendicitis as it detoxifies the body and reduces inflammation. It helps ease pain, nausea, and bloating, making it a soothing addition to your diet.
After reading this, it’s clear that a healthy diet plays a vital role in managing appendicitis. Avoid processed, high-fat, and sugary foods, while focusing on probiotics, fibre-rich foods, and anti-inflammatory ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and fenugreek for quicker recovery.
Dr Amita Jain is a surgeon with the highest degree of professional competence, precision and surgical craftsmanship. Performed all complicated general surgery procedures with in depth knowledge of invasive and few minimal invasive and onco surgical techniques. Underwent special training in trauma, executed various trauma-related complex life-saving neurosurgical procedures, reconstructed injured mangled limbs and performed vascular and reconstructive procedures with critical care.
Dr Amita Jain holds 28 plus years of rich experience in Trauma and General Laparoscopic Surgeries (including Gallbladder stone removal, appendix removal, hernia repair surgery, piles and fissure surgeries). She was the Professor Surgery of at the Army College of Medical Sciences and Base Hospital Delhi Cantt. In 1994 she was commissioned as Surgeon under the United Nations Mission in Congo. From 2020 to 2022, she worked with Bansals Hospital. Currently, Dr Amita Jain is the Senior Consultant, (Speciality: General and Laparoscopic Surgeon) at Artemis Lite Hospital, New Delhi and Sr. General and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Rainbow Children Hospitals, Malviya Nagar, Delhi.