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My father-in-law had colon surgery. Is walking safe now?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My father-in-law is 74 years old and recently had a colon resection surgery. Please guide on diet, he is vomiting almost every day, and is not able to digest soft food.

The doctor told him to try to walk for 70 to 80 minutes. Is walking not too much of a strain after surgery like that?

Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

So, your father-in-law needs a diet suitable for post-colon resection. Considering his age, he should follow a very low-fiber diet. That is likely why any extra fiber has been causing nausea.

  • White rice should be well-cooked and served in small portions as part of the main meal. You can also include white bread (without added sugars). Cream of rice, cream of wheat, tapioca, potatoes, and whole-grain pasta are also suitable, as long as portions are small.
  • There are no restrictions on types, but everything must be well-cooked, including raw fruits and vegetables. Examples: cooked beetroot, spinach, and other steamed or boiled vegetables.
  • Yogurt can be included regularly.
  • Serve small portions at regular intervals (every two to three hours). This helps keep his digestive system on track.
  • Gradually, once his system is ready, he can be transitioned to higher-fiber foods.

So, until you make that switch, you should calculate small proportions, small time gaps, and time-to-time well-cooked carbohydrates and low-fiber foods, as mentioned above.

Also, make sure to completely avoid caffeine, alcohol, breakfast cereals, nuts, and seeds. If he eats any of these, he may be at risk of developing diverticulosis.

Coming to the walking question you asked, there is no harm in slow walking. He should not strain himself too much; a 30 to 45-minute daily walk is enough. Later, as he recovers, he can walk for longer hours as well.

I hope I have helped in detail.

Best regards.

Medically reviewed byiCliniq medical review team

Published At November 1, 2025
Reviewed AtNovember 5, 2025

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