What should I eat while recovering from lung transplant surgery?

In the first month following lung transplantation you will be recovering from the stress of surgery. It is important to consume enough protein and total calories to help your wounds heal. You also need added protein to help overcome muscle breakdown caused by high doses of prednisone. To help meet your protein needs, the following foods are recommended:

• Meats (beef, pork, poultry, turkey, seafood)
• Fish 
• Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt) must be pasteurized 
• Eggs (but no more than three to four yolks per week) 
• Egg substitutes (egg whites)

The following are vegetarian selections high in protein. When taken in adequate amounts as part of a well-balanced diet, these foods meet your protein needs:

• Nuts
• Split peas 
• Soy products
• Dried beans 
• Peanut butter 
• Tofu