I just had surgery for thyroid cancer, what should I pay attention to in my diet, what foods should I choose to be good for my health? (Thanh Minh, 45 years old, Ho Chi Minh City)
A scientific diet after thyroid cancer surgery plays an important role in the recovery process, enhancing overall health and preventing tumor recurrence.
During the three days after surgery, you should eat soft, liquid foods such as porridge, soup, soup, noodles, pho… to avoid pain in the neck area and not damage the surgical wound.
The diet after thyroid surgery needs a variety of foods and all nutrient groups, including protein from meat and fish; Rice, vermicelli, pho contain starch; Fats from animal fats and vegetable oils. Increase foods rich in fiber and vitamins and minerals from vegetables and fruits such as broccoli, guava, carrots, and mango. You should not abstain too much because it can easily lead to health depletion.
Patients should not eat too much of one type of food; Avoid processed foods, alcohol, and soft drinks; Do not smoke… If patients have to have radiotherapy after thyroid cancer surgery, they should not eat foods containing iodine such as seafood and cabbage before and during radiotherapy.
After radiotherapy, the patient eats normally. Iodized salt should be limited because excess iodine increases the risk of thyroid cancer recurrence. Drink 1.5-2 liters of water every day, maintain fluid balance to support the liver and kidneys in eliminating toxins.
After surgery, thyroid activity changes, and some patients may have difficulty maintaining a healthy weight. A healthy diet helps control weight and prevent factors that promote cancer recurrence and progression such as overweight, obesity, hypertension, and diabetes.