Watching how and what you eat prior to surgery is imperative in preparing for a successful, stress-free procedure. Eating right can go a long way in helping to prevent postoperative swelling and inflammation, and can assist the incisions in healing at a faster rate.
You should be prepared to start making changes at least 4-6 weeks before your surgery date. Start by avoiding processed foods and refined carbohydrates, which can promote inflammation. The best foods are whole foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, fish, eggs, beans, avocados, nuts, seeds and whole grains. Anything from a box, can or container is going to be less than ideal for your body at this time. Berries are a great way to start your day because they contain antioxidants and easily absorbed nutrients. You should also consider eating non-starchy vegetables throughout the day, including:
Note that caffeinated beverages, carbonated beverages, and alcohol should all be tapered off before surgery.
Finally, don’t underestimate the importance of drinking enough water. Drinking at least eight glasses of water each day helps to keep your digestion working well and your skin clear.
The following suggestions are general guidelines. Check back on this page for tasty and nutritious presurgical recipes.
Stop taking all nutritional and herbal supplements (vitamins, herbals, minerals etc.). A complete list will be given to you during your preoperative appointment.
*The only exception to this is calcium, Vitamin D and iron.
