When can I start eating after a total gastrectomy for stomach cancer?

Generally, after a patient undergoes radical gastrectomy for gastric cancer, they can start eating once their intestinal function recovers. However, the specific time varies from person to person, and there is no unified standard.

Early Postoperative Stage:

It is generally recommended to drink a small amount of water or some liquid food, such as rice soup, within 2-3 days after surgery, and observe for any abdominal pain or gastrointestinal bleeding.

Mid Postoperative Stage:

If the patient's condition is good, the variety and quantity of food can be gradually increased, starting from less to more, from thin to thick, gradually adding solid foods, including egg custard, minced meat porridge, fish puree, vegetable juice, and other semi-liquid and soft foods. Avoid early intake of rough, hard, and fried foods to prevent anastomotic fistula or ulcer formation. At the same time, pay attention to supplementing high-protein, low-fat, and easily digestible foods to promote wound healing and physical recovery.

Late Postoperative Stage:

Once gastrointestinal motility returns to normal, the patient can eat normally, but still need to maintain a light diet, eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, and appropriately consume foods rich in quality protein, such as lean pork, beef, lamb, milk, and soy products, to ensure balanced nutrition. For patients who have undergone total gastrectomy, regular abdominal CT examinations are also required to monitor the recurrence or metastasis of the tumor. Maintain a good mindset in daily life and actively cooperate with doctors for treatment, which is conducive to the early improvement of the condition.