FOOD TO EAT AND TO AVOID BEFORE AND AFTER SURGERY
Surgery places a significant stress on the body & can impact us in many ways.
Whether preparing for, or recovering from a procedure, paying attention to our diet is a crucial step in supporting the healing process and reducing the risk of complications.
In this post, we’ll cover the foods to eat and avoid before and after your surgery.
Recommended Pre and Post Surgical Nutrients
Lean Protein
Packed with essential vitamins and minerals, protein is incredibly nutrient-dense. It plays a crucial role in maintaining and building muscle, making it important for tissue repair following surgery. Additionally, it is the most satiating of the macronutrients, meaning you will feel fuller for longer, which is especially beneficial during sedentary periods. Chicken, grass-fed beef, fish, eggs or tofu are great & delicious options that can easily be prepped in advance & incorporated in a variety of dishes.
Antioxidant-Rich Fruits and Vegetables
Adding a vibrant array of fruits and vegetables to your diet is not just about adding color to your plate; it is key for any healthy and balanced diet. Thanks to their immune system support and disease prevention, they’re especially important during times of surgical procedures. Additionally, variety is king! Berries, leafy greens, citrus fruits, and bell peppers, the list goes on! Choose your favorites that can be eaten both raw and cooked for a fun mix of taste and texture.
Healthy Fats
Understanding the relationship between the fats you consume and their impact on your body (even the fat you store!) is crucial. Fats are directly connected to hormone production, cellular function and nutrient absorption. All are major indications of day to day energy and quality of life. Incorporating healthy fats such as seeds, nuts, olive oil or avocado will not only help you sustain energy during recovery but are also shown to reduce inflammation and support tissue repair.
Probiotic-Rich Foods
Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts which support a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut to promote digestion and nutrient absorption. Digestive problems, such as constipation or diarrhea, can be common after surgery. Adding foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, or kimchi are great probiotic sources easy to implement in a well-balanced diet. Additionally, more research is showing a strong link between gut and mental health, indicating a happy gut can play a role in a happier mood and improved mental well-being.
Whole Grain Sources
Include options such as brown rice, quinoa, or whole wheat in your diet to up your fiber content to help promote bowel regularity and sustained energy. Fiber will also yield long term dividends for your overall well-being as a powerful ally in maintaining a healthy heart and blood sugar levels.
You aren’t what you eat, you are what you digest!
It's very clear, a healthy diet is an incredibly important part of the recovery process before and after surgery. By avoiding certain foods and including nutrient-dense options, you can give your body the support it needs on your healing journey. However, if any of the foods listed don’t digest well and make you feel lethargic, bloated, or give you stomach pain, heartburn, or gas, don’t hesitate to reach out to a nutritionist or dietician for guidance on what other options may be a better fit.
Foods to avoid surrounding surgical intervention
In today’s world, food scientists have done an outstanding job to make food hyper-palatable, delicious, and addicting. However, most of these foods provide zero benefit to our health. Especially when preparing for surgery. Here’s what should be consumed in moderation, and simply avoided before and after any procedure.
Fried Foods
High in unhealthy fats and excess calories, fried foods can slow down digestion and increase the risk of nausea and vomiting during and after surgery. Consuming fried foods in excess amounts is the quickest way to gain unwanted weight, increase inflammation, and increase the risk of chronic health conditions - things you definitely want to avoid during your road to recovery.
Caffeine and Alcohol
It's best to completely avoid these substances for at least 24 hours before surgery as they can cause dehydration, interfere with anesthesia, and increase the risk of bleeding due to their blood thinning capabilities. Additionally, both caffeine and alcohol disrupt sleep patterns which can prolong the recovery process. Consult with your healthcare team on the specific guidelines you should follow before and after your surgery.
Sugary and Processed Foods
Foods packed with excess sugars and refined carbohydrates not only have empty calories but also lack essential nutrients, which can impair immune function and delay healing. Moreover, highly processed foods tend to be highly addictive, making it challenging to eliminate from your diet and improve your overall health.
Spicy Foods
Spicy foods can cause digestive discomfort such as heartburn, indigestion, nausea or vomiting. Not only is this uncomfortable but can also interfere with the healing process. Instead, opt for mild and easily digestible meals in the days leading up to your procedure and during the postoperative period. Once fully recovered, feel free to reintroduce your favorite spicy foods and flavors.
High In Sodium
Excessive sodium can increase fluid retention, swelling, and potential complications during and after surgery. A diet too high in sodium can also apply unwanted pressure to the kidneys, potentially impairing their function. Kidneys play a vital role in eliminating toxins from the body and promoting overall health during the recovery period.
Always consult with your operating physician before making any dietary changes or starting
a new exercise regimen and abide by all fasting guidelines provided by your doctor.
PRO-TIP: AN OPPORTUNITY TO CREATE HEALTHY HABITS
The foods to incorporate are necessary in any balanced diet and have numerous other benefits for overall health and wellbeing. Additionally the foods listed to avoid should be limited to special occasions as they have little to no health benefits.
A balanced diet will help you feel your best by providing sustained energy, improving cognitive function and reducing the risk of chronic diseases. They will also help you maintain the results of your procedure and fitness efforts by fueling your body with the nutrients needed to build and repair muscle, reduce inflammation, and improve recovery between workouts.
It’s clear that healthy habits not only support recovery after surgery but also promote long-term health and wellbeing. The people who experience the most success in changing habits have a strong support system. Include friends and family members on your new journey or find a nutrition and fitness coach so you know you have people in your corner through this process.
To get a customized meal plan and learn more about ways to create healthy habits through diet and exercise, visit our partnership page by following the link below: