nutrition
The Role of Nutrition in Surgical Recovery
Surgery places significant stress on the body, increasing the risk of complications such as infections and delayed healing. Optimizing your nutrition before and after surgery can enhance your recovery, reduce complications, and improve overall outcomes. As part of my holistic protocol, I encourage patients to focus on their nutrition around surgery.
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It’s a common misconception that only older or chronically ill individuals need to worry about nutrition. However, studies indicate that even young and healthy individuals can benefit from nutritional optimization, leading to faster and more effective recoveries.
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To support your body’s healing process:
Maintain a balanced diet rich in whole foods.
Increase protein intake, aiming to double your usual amount for at least two weeks post-surgery.
Avoid highly processed foods that can impede healing.
Supplement with key nutrients like Vitamins D and C, and Magnesium.
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to aid digestion and prevent constipation.
Limit alcohol consumption, as it can disrupt sleep, which is vital for recovery.
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Post-surgery, your body’s protein requirements double to support tissue repair and muscle maintenance. Preparing for surgery with increased protein intake 1–2 weeks prior, and continuing supplementation for up to three months afterward, can significantly enhance recovery and reduce muscle atrophy.
Key amino acids to consider:
Leucine: Essential for muscle synthesis. Aim for 3 grams per serving, as many standard protein powders contain only 1–1.5 grams.
Glutamine: Supports muscle repair and immune function.
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Certain nutrients play pivotal roles in healing:
Vitamin D: Crucial for bone and tendon health. Approximately one-third of Americans are deficient. Supplement with at least 800 IU daily, starting one month before surgery and continuing for three months post-operation.
Vitamin C: Important for collagen formation. Taking 500 mg twice daily can reduce postoperative pain and may enhance tendon healing.
Magnesium: Aids in pain reduction, improves sleep quality, and supports calcium and vitamin D absorption. Since about 50% of the U.S. population doesn’t get enough magnesium, consider supplementing with magnesium glycinate, which is better tolerated than other forms.
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Managing multiple supplements can be challenging, which is why I encourage a comprehensive solution designed specifically for surgical patients.
My recommendation is Complete Surgical Nutrition. This kit includes:
Single-serve shakes: Start 1–2 weeks before surgery for optimal loading, though beginning immediately after surgery still offers benefits.
Pre-surgery carbohydrate drink: Consuming this low-sugar beverage the night before surgery can reduce hospital stay duration.
If you are interested in purchasing a kit, enter the code DetroitOrtho at checkout for a discount.
Alternatively, you can use over-the-counter protein powders and supplement with the necessary vitamins and minerals. While the kit may have a higher upfront cost, it consolidates essential nutrients, potentially offering better value and convenience.