Healthy Eating

During recovery from your transplant operation you will be looking forward to returning to a more normal way of life.  Dietary restrictions are often a big issue for people preparing for a transplant.  The good news is that these restrictions may no longer be required after your transplant.  There is a new set of nutritional issues to face post-transplant, however, often due to the effects of some of the ant-rejection medications you need to take.

The main side effects you may experience include

1. Increased appetite

2. Weight gain

3. Type 2 diabetes

4. High cholesterol

5. Osteoporosis

A healthy balanced diet and active lifestyle are important factors for minimising these side effects.

Long-term Healthy Eating

In the long term, post transplant, you will need to maintain a healthy, balance diet.  A balanced diet is high in variety and fibre, low in fat and added sugars, and provides all the nutrients you require.  A balanced diet will help you maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle.  After transplant you need to pay special attention to dietary fat, calcium and fluids.

Cholesterol and dietary fat

Cholesterol can build up on the inside of blood vessels, decreasing blood flow and causing heart disease.  It is particularly important for transplant patients to reduce the risk of heart disease.  The restriction of dietary cholesterol, which is found only in animal products, is important.  Also, be aware that dietary fats have important interactions with cholesterol that impact on heart disease risk.   (types of fat)

Calcium for strong bones

Long-term use of steroids such as prednisolone can lead to osteoporosis or tinning of the bones.  Calcium is an essential nutrient for maintaining strong, healthy bones.  Dairy products are the best sources of calcium.  Calcium-fortified soy products, fish with bones, almonds and vegetables can contribute small amounts of calcium to the diet.

Fluids

Fluid intake post-transplant is very important.  Be aware that fluids such as cordials, soft drinks, juices and flavoured milk drinks contribute extra energy that may be undesirable if you are trying to control your weight.  Ask your dietitian or transplant coordinator for advice.

The Australian Guide to Healthy Eating provides a good basis for the types and amounts of foods to choose      (more details)
-  Breads, cereals, rice, pasta, noodles and grains.
-  Vegetables and legumes
-  Fruit
-  Milk and dairy products
-  Meat, fish, poultry, eggs, nuts and legumes

Finally

Changing your eating habits can be a challenge.  However, diet is one area of your recovery over which you have a lot of control.  After your transplant, it's a good time to reflect on past eating behaviours (including restrictions) and to set the pattern for a new, healthy lifestyle