Best Tips for a Healthy and Speedy Recovery

Whether you’re recovering from surgery, illness, or medical treatment, you need to support the medical care you received by making the right decisions back at home. Ensure you’re taking proper care of your body (and mind) by following some of these tips for a healthy and speedy recovery, and you’ll be back on your feet in no time.

Rest

The number one best thing you can do to recover more quickly is to get an adequate amount of rest after a surgery or illness. Whether your body is fighting off a virus or dealing with the trauma of an invasive procedure, it’s working overtime to ensure you get well soon. The worst thing you can do during this time is to overwork your body. You need all of your energy to go toward recovery, and that includes mental as well. Mental stress can take a physical toll on the body just as much as anything, so try to stay as calm and serene as possible while you’re getting better.

Light Activity

With that being said, it’s beneficial to take a short walk or do light exercises when you are able. If you’re unsure when you should be back on your feet, double check with your doctor. Bed rest is important, but being overly sedentary can lead to blood clots or weak muscles. It can also be beneficial for your digestive system. For activities like driving, operating machinery, or doing the heavy lifting, check with your doctor and see how your medication or treatment may affect these activities.

Nutrition

Healthy eating after surgery is vitally important. After all, our body needs nutrients to survive, and while it’s working hard to get you back on your feed, it needs more nutrients than ever. It takes a lot of energy to recover after a surgery or illness. Some of the best foods to aid in recovery are fruits high in antioxidants, such as berries, and proteins, such as meat, nuts, and beans. And, don’t forget to stay hydrated during your recovery.

Aftercare

Specifically, with surgeries, aftercare is exceptionally important. Whether it be changing the dressing on your wound or wearing the appropriate post-surgical compression garments, you must be following doctor’s orders to a T. Your procedure may have gone successfully, but it’s up to you to maintain your body and support that procedure with the proper follow-up care. This may also include attending physical therapy or visiting your doctor for regular post-op checkups. Do not skip these important steps to recovery, as they can set you back significantly.