Whenever we fall sick, doctors not only prescribe medicines but often hand over a diet chart too. Why? Because a thoughtfully structured diet complements the healing process by supplying the body with essential nutrients to rebuild strength and immunity. Food, in its own unique way, acts as medicine, helping to detoxify the body, reduce inflammation, and restore energy. But what if we went a step further and followed a diet that not only heals but also helps prevent certain health conditions or keeps them in check?
Take fistula, for example—a condition that can be both painful and challenging to manage. According to Dr Amita Jain, India’s top general and laparoscopic surgeon and one of the best surgeons for fistula, there are certain foods that you should avoid to keep your fistula in control.
A fistula is an abnormal connection or passageway that forms between two organs, vessels, or structures in the body that are not normally connected. It can develop as a result of injury, infection, inflammation, or surgery. Fistulas can occur in various parts of the body, including the digestive system, the urinary system, the reproductive system, and even between blood vessels.
What are some of the foods you should avoid for a Fistula?
1. Spicy Food: If you are someone who loves spicy food, it’s time to rethink your choices if you’re dealing with a fistula. Spicy foods, especially those with hot peppers or heavy seasonings, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, intensify discomfort, and worsen inflammation. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for the heat in peppers, can slow digestion and lead to harder stools, making bowel movements more painful.
This irritation can further aggravate the condition. Instead, opt for light, homemade meals with minimal seasoning. Instead, have fresh salads, sprouts, and microgreens, but skip the oily or spicy dressings. Eating smaller portions at regular intervals is also a better approach for better digestion and comfort.
2. Fried and Fatty Food – Say no to fried and fatty foods if you want to keep fistula discomfort under control. These foods, like deep-fried snacks, fast food, and processed items, are loaded with unhealthy fats and lack fibre, which can slow digestion and lead to constipation.
Constipation worsens the pain and irritation caused by a fistula. Additionally, such foods can cause weight gain, adding extra pressure on your body and hampering the healing process. Choosing a healthier diet is key to easing symptoms and promoting recovery.
3. Alcohol and Caffeine – Stay away from alcohol and caffeine if you’re recovering from a fistula. These drinks can dehydrate your body, making digestion harder and increasing the risk of constipation. Constipation worsens symptoms and makes recovery uncomfortable. Strong drinks like black coffee or heavy milk tea can also irritate your system. To keep things smooth and aid healing, it’s best to avoid them altogether.
4. Red Meat – No matter how much you love red meat, it’s best to avoid it if you want to keep a fistula under control. Its low fibre content makes it hard to digest and doesn’t help in adding bulk to your stool. Eating too much red meat, especially when fried or loaded with spices, can strain your digestive system and worsen the condition. Choose fibre-rich foods instead to support smoother digestion and better gut health.
5. Processed Food – Processed food items like canned goods, fast food, and snacks are loaded with sodium, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives. These ingredients can trigger inflammation, cause water retention, and slow down the healing process. For someone managing a fistula, such foods can be especially harmful. Instead, choose whole, natural foods and prepare meals at home to have better control over what goes into your body.
6. Sugary Food – It is a fact that sugary foods can worsen fistula symptoms. High-sugar items like candies, pastries, and sugary drinks not only slow digestion but also trigger inflammation, making discomfort worse. Avoiding sugar and corn syrup can help ease gastrointestinal issues and support better healing. Reducing sugar intake is a simple step to feel better and stay in control.
If you really want to manage your fistula effectively, avoid spicy, fried, and fatty foods, along with red meat, alcohol, caffeine, processed, and sugary items. Instead, focus on a fibre-rich, wholesome diet that aids digestion and reduces inflammation. A mindful diet can make recovery smoother and help prevent flare-ups.
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.