Appendicitis Nutrition: What to Eat and Avoid for a Healthy Appendix

The appendix is a small, finger-shaped, approximately four-inch-long tube that leads from the intestine or part of the large intestine. When this small organ becomes swollen or inflamed, it may need to be surgically removed. This condition is called appendicitis, which can prove fatal if not treated in time.

Causes of appendicitis
Appendicitis can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection in the digestive tract, Dr. It can also cause swelling of the lymph nodes, which in turn puts pressure on the appendix and causes a blockage, says Biswas.

Elaborating further, she says, "The pressure can restrict blood supply to the organ leading to inflammation, which may require surgical removal."

Symptoms of appendicitis
Here are some common symptoms of appendicitis:

Severe pain in the lower abdomen especially around the belly button

• Loss of appetite
• Difficulty passing gas
• Constant feeling of bloating
• Indigestion and nausea
• Abdominal swelling with low fever
  

Foods to Eat During Appendicitis
Dr. According to Biswas, a healthy and balanced diet that includes certain foods and nutrients can help control the symptoms of appendicitis, facilitate easy digestion and increase appetite. Here are the foods to include in your diet:

High fiber diet
When it comes to digestive health, a high fiber diet is essential. Foods that are high in fiber and low in fat are easy to digest. These include fresh fruits, oats, steamed sprouts and seeds, which can be cooked in minimal oil and spices. Some of the recipes shared by the doctor include Upma, Daliya and Khichdi.

ginger
Another beneficial ingredient that can help reduce the symptoms of appendicitis is ginger. A mixture of ground ginger, honey and turmeric powder is known to have medicinal properties that, if taken twice a day, relieves inflammation, nausea and flatulence, Dr. Biswas says, adding, “Ginger is used in many Ayurvedic medicines because it is very useful. Anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties."

Buttermilk or 'Chaas'
Whey is said to be a detoxifying agent, which helps eliminate any bacterial growth in the appendix. Dr. Biswas recommends preparing the drink “organically” at home.

Foods to Avoid During Appendicitis
Fried food
People suffering from appendicitis should avoid foods rich in oil and spices. These are difficult to digest, which is why they can make painful symptoms worse.

alcohol
Alcohol consumption affects the overall health of the gut by promoting the growth of microbes in the gut and weakening the digestive system. Alcohol consumption can also lead to inflammation of the appendix causing excruciating abdominal pain.

Sugar
Apart from the natural sugar extracted from fruits, all other types of sugar are harmful to a patient suffering from appendicitis, says Dr Biswas. According to her, refined or artificial sugars can trigger diarrhea and worsen appendicitis symptoms. These can be found in foods such as chocolate, ice cream and sweets, which should be avoided as much as possible.