Getting a snake eyes piercing (a horizontal tongue piercing near the tip) can be exciting, but it also requires some adjustments, especially when it comes to eating. Proper care during the healing period is essential to avoid complications like irritation or infection. Here’s a detailed guide on what you can eat with a snake eyes piercing and how to make the healing process smoother.

What Can You Eat With a Fresh Snake Eyes Piercing?

When your piercing is new, your tongue will likely be swollen and sensitive, making eating tricky. Stick to soft, easy-to-eat foods during this period. Here’s what works best:

  1. Soft Foods:
    Choose foods that don’t require much chewing or pressure on your tongue. Examples include:
    • Mashed potatoes
    • Yogurt
    • Applesauce
    • Smoothies
    • Pudding
    • Oatmeal
      These foods are gentle on your tongue and won’t irritate the piercing.
  2. Cool or Cold Foods:
    Cold foods can help reduce swelling and soothe your tongue. Try:
    • Ice cream (without hard toppings)
    • Popsicles
    • Chilled soups (like gazpacho)
    • Cold beverages (avoid straws as they can irritate the piercing)
  3. Broths and Soups:
    Warm, smooth soups (not hot) are a great option. Avoid chunks of meat or vegetables that might require chewing.
  4. Protein Shakes and Smoothies:
    These are excellent meal replacements during the initial days. They’re nutritious, easy to swallow, and won’t strain your tongue.

Foods to Avoid During Healing

Certain foods can irritate your piercing or slow down the healing process. Avoid the following:

  1. Spicy Foods:
    Spices can cause a burning sensation and irritate the fresh piercing.
  2. Hard or Crunchy Foods:
    Foods like chips, nuts, crackers, or raw vegetables can put pressure on the piercing or get stuck around the jewelry.
  3. Sticky or Chewy Foods:
    Gum, caramel, or sticky candy can cling to the piercing and make cleaning difficult.
  4. Acidic Foods and Drinks:
    Citrus fruits, tomatoes, or anything with high acidity can sting and irritate the wound.
  5. Hot Foods and Beverages:
    Heat can increase swelling and discomfort, so let your food cool down before eating.

What Can You Eat After the Initial Healing Period?

Once the swelling goes down (usually after 1–2 weeks), you can slowly reintroduce more foods into your diet. However, it’s still important to be cautious:

  1. Cut Food into Small Pieces:
    Even after initial healing, cutting your food into smaller pieces reduces pressure on your tongue and prevents accidental biting.
  2. Chew Slowly and Carefully:
    Be mindful of your piercing to avoid biting the jewelry, which can damage your teeth or gums.
  3. Stick to Non-Irritating Foods:
    Avoid excessively spicy, acidic, or sticky foods until your piercing is fully healed (typically 2–3 months).

Tips for Eating Comfortably with a Snake Eyes Piercing

  • Drink Water Frequently:
    Staying hydrated helps wash away food particles and keeps your mouth clean.
  • Rinse After Meals:
    Use a saline solution or an alcohol-free mouthwash to rinse your mouth after eating to prevent infections.
  • Avoid Straws:
    Sucking through a straw creates pressure on your tongue, which can slow healing.
  • Be Patient:
    Adjusting to eating with a tongue piercing takes time. Go slow, and don’t rush into eating harder foods.

When to See a Professional

If you experience severe pain, prolonged swelling, or signs of infection (such as pus, extreme redness, or fever), contact your piercer or a healthcare provider immediately. These could indicate a problem that needs attention.