By Dr. Sanjog Singh, Head & Neck Cancer Surgeon – Samsara Cancer Care, Nagpur
Diet plays a critical role in recovery after oral cancer surgery or radiation therapy. For many patients, swallowing and chewing become difficult because of changes in the tongue, jaw, or throat. A carefully planned soft food diet can help maintain nutrition, speed up healing, and prevent pain or injury to the surgical site. In Maharashtra and across India, where diets are often spicy and textured—with chapati, dry rice, or crispy snacks—adjusting food consistency is essential for safe swallowing and comfort.
Diet plays a critical role in recovery after oral cancer surgery or radiation therapy. For many patients, swallowing and chewing become difficult because of changes in the tongue, jaw, or throat. A carefully planned soft food diet can help maintain nutrition, speed up healing, and prevent pain or injury to the surgical site. In Maharashtra and across India, where diets are often spicy and textured—with chapati, dry rice, or crispy snacks—adjusting food consistency is essential for safe swallowing and comfort.
Why a Soft Food Diet is Important
After oral cancer surgery, tissues in the mouth are sensitive and may have reduced mobility. Radiation therapy can cause dryness (xerostomia) or soreness. Hard, spicy, or fibrous foods may irritate wounds, cause pain, or increase the risk of aspiration (food entering the airway). A soft food diet ensures:- Easier swallowing and digestion
- Reduced pain while eating
- Adequate calorie and protein intake for recovery
- Prevention of weight loss and malnutrition
Recommended Indian Soft Foods for Recovery
A soft diet doesn’t mean bland or tasteless food. With a few adjustments, traditional Indian meals can be made both nutrient-rich and mouth-friendly. Below are examples suitable for patients in the post-surgery phase:Breakfast Options
- Upma or poha made soft with extra water or milk.
- Oats or suji porridge with mashed banana.
- Dalia or soft rice flakes cooked with milk for calories and protein.
Lunch and Dinner
- Dal-khichdi or moong dal rice, easy to swallow and rich in protein.
- Mashed vegetables like pumpkin, bottle gourd, and carrot.
- Soft paneer or curd-based curries without excessive oil or spices.
- Curd rice or buttermilk rice for cooling and hydration.
Snacks
- Fruit smoothies made with banana, papaya, or chikoo.
- Steamed idlis soaked in sambhar.
- Soups (dal soup, vegetable soup, chicken broth) for protein and hydration.
Foods to Avoid
- Hard foods like dry roti, toast, papad, and fried snacks.
- Spicy, acidic, or citrus foods that can irritate healing tissues.
- Alcohol, tobacco, and carbonated drinks.
- Very hot beverages that can cause burns or discomfort.
Tips for Easier Eating
- Eat small, frequent meals rather than large portions.
- Sit upright while eating and for 30 minutes afterward.
- Use lukewarm water to rinse the mouth before and after meals.
- Add ghee or olive oil in small amounts to improve calorie intake.
- Consult your speech and swallowing therapist for safe food textures suited to your stage of recovery.