Research has shown that people who are well nourished and eat healthy foods before and after surgery recover more quickly and are less likely to have complications. We recommend and anti-inflammatory (“Mediterranean’) style diet and increased protein intake to optimize recovery. Controlling your blood glucose also will positively impact your recovery.
Pre and Post Surgery Goal: 100-125 grams daily
Increase your protein intake for 2-4 weeks prior to surgery.
Continue increased protein for at least 4 weeks after surgery.
If you are unable to meet your protein needs through meals and snacks, choose a high protein supplement 1-2 times per day. This includes Ensure High Protein, Boost High Protein, Ensure Max or Boost Max, Premier Protein, and Carnation Breakfast Essentials. Glucerna shakes are also a low sugar option.
Steps to get you started:
Choose more plant based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and nuts.
Choose healthy fats like those found in olive oil, nuts, peanuts, avocados, and fish.
Choose lean protein sources like fish, poultry, and beans more often than red meat.
Have a serving of protein at each meal/snack.
Enjoy yogurt and small portions of low fat cheese daily.
Use herbs and spices instead of salt to flavor foods.