Robert BurkeThe foods you eat after surgery play a major role in how quickly and effectively your body heals. At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, we often remind our Houston and Pearland, TX patients that nutrition can significantly influence joint recovery—especially after advanced orthopedic procedures like the MACI Regenerative Cartilage Therapy for knee pain.
Your body needs extra support while healing, and the right diet can help reduce inflammation, boost energy, and promote tissue repair. Here are some of the best foods to include in your post-surgical recovery plan.
🍓 Berries – Anti-Inflammatory & Vitamin-Rich
Berries are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, making them excellent for supporting tissue repair and collagen formation after orthopedic procedures. These nutrients help restore soft tissues and aid in healing surgical incisions.
While inflammation is a natural part of recovery, it’s important to keep it under control. Adding blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, and goji berries to your diet can help reduce excessive inflammation and support balanced healing.
🐟 Fish & Nuts – Healthy Fats for Recovery
Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, mackerel, walnuts, and almonds, provide your body with healthy fats that improve vitamin absorption and reduce inflammation.
Omega-3s also strengthen the immune system and help increase energy levels, both of which are vital during your recovery. Adding these foods to your meals helps your body process essential nutrients more effectively, leading to better joint and tissue health.
🥬 Dark Leafy Greens – Nutrient Powerhouses
When it comes to recovery, dark leafy greens are some of the most beneficial foods you can eat. These vegetables are rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, which play key roles in wound healing and immune support.
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, Swiss chard, romaine lettuce, bok choy, and mustard greens are also packed with iron, fiber, potassium, and magnesium—important nutrients for restoring strength and preventing fatigue.
Try adding them to smoothies, salads, or cooked side dishes to stay nourished and hydrated throughout recovery.
🥚 Eggs – Complete Protein for Healing
Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein and zinc, both of which help repair damaged tissue and strengthen the immune system. Just one egg contains 6 grams of protein, along with vitamins A, E, K, and B-complex nutrients, plus minerals like calcium and iron.
Eggs are also easy to digest, versatile, and ideal for patients recovering from surgery. Enjoy them boiled, scrambled, poached, or added to salads to support your recovery in a simple, nutritious way.
Supporting Your Recovery with Dr. Burke Orthopedics
At Dr. Burke Orthopedics, our goal is to help patients in Houston and Pearland, Texas, recover fully and return to an active lifestyle. Whether you’ve undergone the MACI regenerative cartilage procedure or another orthopedic treatment, a balanced diet is an essential part of healing.
For personalized post-surgical care and nutrition guidance, schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert L. Burke, a board-certified orthopedic surgeon with decades of experience helping patients restore mobility and joint function.
📞 Call (713) 436-3488 or visit drburkeortho.com/contact to learn more about our comprehensive orthopedic care.
Disclaimer
All health information provided is for educational purposes only. Dr. Burke Orthopedics offers regenerative orthopedic care performed under FDA-cleared standards by licensed medical professionals. Individual recovery results vary based on diagnosis, age, and overall health.