Your pre-operation nurse will provide detailed instructions on what you can eat before surgery and how many hours before the procedure you can consume food. More broadly, you should have a strategy to consume the right nutrition and boost your exercise in the weeks leading up to surgery to promote post-operation healing and recovery.
surgical guidelines now say that it’s safe and even potentially helpful to drink certain liquids up to two hours before surgery, She In fact, the American Society of Anesthesiologists preoperative fasting guidelines recommend that patients fast “from intake of clear liquids for two or more hours before procedures recommending general anesthesia, regional anesthesia or sedation/analgesia.” Examples of clear liquids that are acceptable to drink before surgery include water, fruit juices without pulp, some beverages with carbonation, clear tea and black coffee. Consuming clear liquids that contain complex carbohydrates can help reduce nausea, vomiting and pain after surgery. Such drinks can also help reduce the short-term insulin resistance experienced by many patients who fast before surgery, which can increase complications and pain. The following are the general nutrition guideline before surgery:
Consume plenty of protein
Eating enough protein before your operation helps support your immunity, promotes wound healing and assists in maintaining muscle mass, all of which can help you get back on your feet after your procedure. “Your protein needs are increased during times of stress, such as surgery. Surgical guidelines recommend that patients increase their protein intake in the weeks before a procedure.
Include a healthy amount of fiber in your pre-operation eating regimen
A combination of pain medications and reduced physical activity post-surgery can often cause constipation. Constipation can increase the likelihood of hospital readmission. “Recovering from surgery is already typically a rather uncomfortable situation, so it’s best to avoid raising your discomfort levels where possible. “Consume a high-fiber diet to keep digestion regular. Try eating more fruits and vegetables. Many hospitals require a patient who’s undergone surgery to have a bowel movement before being discharged. Eating plenty of fiber before the operation should keep the gastrointestinal tract moving, which will help the patient have the required bowel movement.
Eat plenty of plant-based foods
In addition to providing dietary fiber, vegetables and fruits contain lots of healthy nutrients, including compounds called phytochemicals that reduce the risk for inflammation. Plant-based foods are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help your body heal from surgery. For example, foods high in vitamin C will help to rebuild collagen, which is the building block of our skin. These include foods such as mangoes, strawberries, any citrus fruits, potatoes and bell peppers.
Avoid foods that are highly processed and high in sugar.
In addition to causing constipation, sugary and highly processed foods can worsen blood sugar control. Research suggests that higher preoperative blood sugar levels are associated with increased post-op complications like infections. “So, if preparing for surgery, it’s best to avoid these types of foods. Instead, try eating vegetables that can boost your immune system, such as broccoli, spinach or peppers, or fresh fruits, yogurt or almonds.
Think about taking nutritional supplements
Undergoing surgery disposes patients to immune dysfunction and places them at higher risk for infection. Taking nutritional supplements in the weeks before the operation can help patients load up on the nutrition they’ll need to recover. Omega-3 fatty acids derived from fish oils and the amino acid arginine that research is suggesting is of great benefit for patients.Research suggests that omega-3’s are beneficial for reducing inflammation during the recovery period, and arginine is important because it’s immune-enhancing and helps support metabolic processes that are important in tissue repair.
Increase your physical activity
“I’d like all patients to increase their physical activity level in the week before their surgery. Physical inactivity following an operation can make some patients vulnerable to potentially deadly blood clots. In the week before your surgery, make a point of walking at least 30 minutes every day, she says. If you have a favorite form of exercise, like swimming or playing tennis, continue your usual regimen. Keeping your body in shape and accustomed to physical activity can help you bounce back after the operation.
Always follow the guidance and recommendations from your nurse and physician. If you would like to know more about the importance of good nutrition before surgery click here to book an appointment!
