Article: It is normal to feel extremely tired following a surgery, especially if you had a major operation or a general anesthetic. Spend time in bed and do only as much as you feel up to doing during these first few days. Pushing yourself too early may be detrimental to your recovery. Avoid any heavy lifting or rigorous exercise during this time. Ask your doctor how long you should rest right after your surgery. This will vary depending on the type of procedure. As a general rule, it is important to get your body moving as much as possible once you start recovering from surgery. Movement will encourage blood flow and strengthen your muscles, making it easier for your body to heal. Ask your doctor how much you are allowed to exercise while you recover and what activities you should avoid. Moderate walking is usually the best exercise to begin with while you are healing. If you spend time recovering in a hospital, asking a nurse or orderly for help walking if necessary. If you are not yet steady on your feet, you may benefit from using a walker or cane to help you keep your balance. High-impact sports, heavy lifting, and rigorous exercise can all cause strain to your body that may delay your healing after surgery. Listen to your doctor's instructions about recovery time and restricted activities. Depending on the surgery you have, you may have to avoid strenuous activity for several weeks or months until your body is fully healed. With major surgeries, your doctor will generally provide you with a specific diet to follow after your operation. Follow any directions or meal plans your doctor gives you very closely while you heal. Eating foods or ingredients that irritate your stomach or cause swelling may hinder your recovery. Processed foods are likely to cause inflammation and stomach irritation. Foods like fatty fish, walnuts, almonds, flax seeds, leafy green vegetables, and turmeric can help reduce inflammation in your body. Many post-surgery diets are high in fiber to prevent constipation, which can cause you to strain and in turn hurt the site of your surgical wound. Lean protein like chicken or fish will help repair body tissue and boost your energy after surgery.
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Rest for the first few days after your operation. Move around as soon as you can, with your doctor's permission. Avoid strenuous activity while you heal. Follow your doctor's diet recommendations to avoid complications.