Chocolate is not recommended after Nissen Fundoplication surgery due to its high-fat content, caffeine and theobromine content, acidity, ability to trigger histamine release, the potential to weaken the LES, difficulty in digesting, and association with digestive symptoms. MyMSK (my.mskcc.org) is your MSK patient portal account. Youll get a prescription for pain medication before you leave the hospital. These include tomato products, fatty or spicy foods, caffeine, alcohol, onions, green peppers, beans, nuts, and raw fruits and vegetables. We can't decide which one is tastier and which one of these we can possibly say no to. If for some reason, the sphincter isn't closing properly, the gastric acid will keep flowing into the esophagus. Taking a warm shower is relaxing and can help with aches and pains. Additionally, she has had several articles regarding food published in various magazines. Your pyloric sphincter is the place where your stomach connects to your small intestine. Your doctor will give you a prescription for an anti-nausea medication when youre discharged from the hospital. Examples of carbonated beverages include soda, sparkling water, and beer. Senna (Senokot). Avoid drinking through a straw and chewing gum or tobacco. In your hospital room, youll meet one of the nurses who will care for you during your stay. It can significantly impact a persons quality of life, and if left untreated, it can lead to complications such as esophagitis, Barretts esophagus, and esophageal cancer. Keep a bottle of water handy. If your job involves a lot of movement or lifting more than 10 pounds (4.5 kilograms), you should return on restricted, light duty. Gradually increase the distance you walk. Nissen fundoplication is a surgical procedure to treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where the stomach acid and contents flow back into the esophagus. The cocoa powder used in making chocolates is acidic in nature, and it can lead to the recurrence of GERD symptoms after the surgery. (Source: High-Fat Foods: Foods high in fat can delay stomach emptying and increase the risk of acid reflux. Drinks with fruit, nuts, granola, or whole food pieces. Cocoa promotes the release of serotonin, which causes the gastric muscles to relax, which causes the gastric contents to rise the esophagus and cause a burning sensation. So just stopping that completely was a bit rough at first. Theyll also explain what to expect the day of your surgery.