When the human body undergoes a surgical procedure, there are many factors that cause the body great stress when it comes time to heal. Following an operation, it is more vital than ever to follow proper nutritional guidelines to afford your body the means for a strong immune system and efficient recovery. While eating right and taking certain supplements is always a good idea, it is especially essential when your body is working extra hard after surgery to get your health back in good standing. There are a variety of best practice nutrition methods you can follow, before and after surgery, to ensure little or no surgical complications and the shortest recovery time possible. Our physicians here at Boulder Plastic Surgery will discuss with you any specific deviations from these tips for your individual case.
Nutrition Tips Before Surgery
The pre-operative period is usually between 2 to 4 weeks. This is the time when you should start becoming conscious of all of your food, vitamin, and mineral intake. One of the most important things is to make sure you keep hydrated. Our bodies are composed of 60 to 75% water, which makes H2O essential in keeping healthy. In addition to aiding in skin health, metabolism, and hormones, drinking enough water helps prevent bloating and constipation which can be common after surgery due to body trauma and medications. It is best practice to drink no less than 64 ounces of water, daily.
In addition to water there are a variety of vitamins and minerals that will contribute to your new healthy lifestyle and a speedy recovery after a surgical procedure. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that is found in many fruits and vegetables. It will, specifically, help protect your cells and also act as a prevention to bruising. It can also provide collagen production and improve blood vessel dilation, which brings more blood to and nutrients to healing wounds.
Pre and Post Operative Nutrition Tips
One week before surgery it is important to change your diet up a bit, again. You should try to avoid foods that could interfere with anesthesia, vein dilation, and your immune system. These include food with highly refined sugars, fish high in Omega 3, and “neurotoxic” substances like alcohol, caffeine, and aspartame.
After your surgery it is important to get plenty of rest and eat foods that digest very easily, which are often soft and easy to chew. Try eating foods that are high in mono-saturated fats like avocado, cherries, and blueberries — these foods are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and will reduce swelling.
If you have any questions before or after a surgery, you can always contact us at Boulder Plastic Surgery for consultation.