Recover and Strengthen Top PostOperative Recipes for Spleen and Lung Nourishment
After surgery, the body undergoes a significant amount of stress, and it is crucial to provide it with the right nourishment to aid in recovery. Focusing on recipes that are beneficial for both the spleen and lung health can be particularly effective in supporting the body's healing process. Here is a compilation of the best post-operative recipes for spleen and lung nourishment.
1. Stewed Chicken Soup with Astragalus and Goji Berries
This soup is a traditional Chinese remedy known for its immune-boosting and recuperative properties. The combination of chicken, astragalus, and goji berries helps to strengthen the spleen and lungs, as well as improve overall immune function.
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken
- 1/2 cup astragalus roots
- 1/2 cup goji berries
- 1 tablespoon ginger, sliced
- 1 teaspoon rock sugar
- 8 cups of water
Instructions:
1. Clean the chicken and remove any feathers or giblets.
2. Place the chicken in a large pot with the astragalus, goji berries, ginger, and water.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours.
4. Add rock sugar to taste, and serve the soup when it has cooled.
2. Braised Pork with Chinese Yam and dates
This dish is rich in nutrients and is believed to help restore the body's vitality after surgery. The Chinese yam and dates work together to strengthen the spleen and lung functions, while the pork provides the necessary protein for recovery.
Ingredients:
- 500g pork, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 200g Chinese yam, peeled and cut into cubes
- 15 dates, pitted
- 4-5 slices of ginger
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon cooking wine
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Instructions:
1. In a pot, bring water to a boil. Add the pork pieces and blanch for 2 minutes. Remove and rinse with cold water.
2. In a separate pot, add the pork, yam, dates, ginger, soy sauce, cooking wine, salt, and sugar.
3. Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1-2 hours until the pork is tender.
4. Serve warm.
3. Roasted Quail with Goji Berries and Astragalus
This dish offers a unique flavor while providing the necessary nutrients for spleen and lung health. Quail meat is rich in protein and low in fat, making it an excellent choice for post-operative patients.
Ingredients:
- 4 quails
- 1/4 cup goji berries
- 1 tablespoon astragalus powder
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix the goji berries, astragalus powder, honey, and sesame oil.
3. Rub the mixture all over the quails, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the quails in a baking dish and roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot.
4. Sweet Potato and Carrot Soup
This creamy, nourishing soup is not only delicious but also packed with vitamins and minerals that support spleen and lung health. Sweet potatoes and carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which helps to boost the immune system.
Ingredients:
- 4 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until translucent.
2. Add the sweet potatoes, carrots, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
3. In a blender, puree the soup until smooth. Return to the pot if desired.
4. Add the cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper to taste. If desired, add the heavy cream and heat through.
5. Serve hot.
By incorporating these recipes into your post-operative diet, you can support your body's healing process and enhance your overall well-being. Remember to consult with your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet.
