Diet Before Surgery: Eating Strategies to Prepare the Body

Preparing the body before a surgical procedure is extremely important. At this point the right eating strategies are critical for preparing the body for recovery and for lowering the risk of complications. So what are the eating strategies before surgery? Always follow the instructions of your surgical team.

Why Does Eating Before Surgery Matter?

Eating before surgery is extremely important for several reasons. In general, they are:

• It may support recovery: surgical procedures usually put the body under stress and trauma. A good eating plan can help the body cope with this stress and support the recovery process. A diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals can support tissue repair.
• It may lower the risk of complications: good nutrition may lower the risk of complications after a surgical procedure. For example, getting enough protein may reduce the risk of infection and support the repair of tissues. Antioxidants can also support recovery.
• It supports the immune system: a surgical procedure is a demanding time for the immune system. A good eating plan can help the body fight infections and may lower the risk of infection after surgery.
• It may help shorten hospital stays: supporting recovery and lowering the risk of complications may shorten the time spent in hospital. This can improve the patient's quality of life and may reduce treatment costs.
• It prepares the body: getting the body into good shape before a surgical procedure may increase its capacity to cope with the operation. A good eating plan can make recovery easier by preparing the body for it.

What Should the Diet Before Surgery Look Like?

In general, the eating strategies before surgery are:

• Build a balanced eating plan: eating in a balanced way is very important before surgery. A diet that balances protein, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins and minerals helps prepare the body for recovery. Protein is needed for the repair and healing of tissues, so it is important to eat protein-rich foods. Focus on protein sources such as meat, fish, chicken, eggs, pulses and dairy products.
• Eat foods rich in antioxidants: antioxidants help protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals and can support the recovery process. Add foods rich in antioxidants, such as fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds, to your diet before surgery. Antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E and beta-carotene in particular may support recovery.
• Watch your fluid intake: fluid intake is important for keeping the body hydrated and supporting the recovery process. Drinking enough water before surgery helps keep tissues flexible. Sources of fluid such as tea, freshly squeezed juice and natural drinks can also be chosen. Follow your surgical team's instructions about when to stop eating and drinking before the operation.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol: caffeine and alcohol can affect the body's recovery process negatively. It is therefore important to limit caffeine and alcohol before surgery.
• Get enough fibre: fibre helps the digestive system work regularly and can reduce the risk of constipation. Eating foods rich in fibre before surgery is important for protecting digestive health. Wholegrain products, vegetables, fruit and nuts should be added to the diet.
• Eat healthy fats with care: healthy fats are the building blocks of the body's cells and can help reduce inflammation. Eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids before surgery may support recovery. Salmon, walnuts, chia seeds and flaxseed are rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
• Stay in touch with your doctor: it is important to stay in touch with your doctor before surgery. Your doctor will help you work out your specific nutritional needs and prepare for the surgical procedure. If you have any concerns or questions about your diet before surgery, do not hesitate to ask your doctor.

This article is for general information only; please consult your doctor and dietitian about your own situation.