Ask AI: What are some good high calorie foods for someone who is trying to recover from surgery?

When recovering from surgery, it's important to consume high-calorie foods that are also rich in essential nutrients to promote healing and regain strength. Here are some nutrient-dense, high-calorie foods to consider: 1. **Avocados**: They are high in healthy fats and provide vitamins E, C, K, and B-6, as well as folate. 2. **Nuts and Seeds**: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds offer a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fibers. 3. **Nut Butters**: Peanut butter, almond butter, and other nut butters are excellent for adding calories and healthy fats to your diet. 4. **Full-Fat Dairy**: Whole milk, full-fat yogurt, cheese, and cream provide both calories and essential nutrients like calcium and protein. 5. **Oily Fish**: Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and calories. 6. **Lean Meats**: Chicken, turkey, and lean beef are excellent sources of protein and calories. 7. **Eggs**: They are versatile and packed with protein, healthy fats, and other nutrients. 8. **Healthy Oils**: Olive oil, coconut oil, and avocado oil can be added to meals for extra calories and beneficial fats. 9. **Whole Grains**: Brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread, and oatmeal provide fiber, vitamins, minerals, and extra calories. 10. **Legumes**: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are rich in protein, fiber, and calories. 11. **Smoothies**: Homemade smoothies with ingredients like yogurt, fruits, nut butters, and protein powder can be customized to be calorie-dense and nutritious. 12. **Dried Fruits**: Raisins, apricots, and other dried fruits are calorie-dense and provide quick energy along with vitamins and minerals. 13. **Dark Chocolate**: Rich in calories and antioxidants, dark chocolate can be a delicious addition in moderation. 14. **Whole Milk and Cream-Based Soups**: These soups are calorie-dense and often include a variety of vegetables, which are beneficial for recovery. Always consult with your healthcare provider or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your post-surgery diet to ensure that you meet your specific recovery needs. Additionally, make sure to stay hydrated and get a balanced intake of protein, fats, and carbohydrates to support overall healing.