Eating well before and after surgery

If you are having surgery, eating well before the surgery is vital. Eating the right foods can provide the necessary protein and nutrients your skin needs to heal. 

At least several weeks before surgery, you should increase protein intake, which builds up your strength and tissue. In addition, the food you eat can significantly impact your recovery and how quickly your incision heals.

To make things easier during your recovery, prepare and plan your menu for your return home before going into the hospital.

Your shopping list should include foods such as:

• Greens: leafy greens provide a wealth of nutrients, including vitamins A, D and E — such as kale, spinach, bok choy and romaine lettuce.
• Whole Grains: Whole grains contain an extensive list of vitamins and nutrients, many of which are necessary for healing, with protein and zinc to help repair tissue — grains such as Barley, Quinoa, Wild Rice, whole wheat, or rye sourdough bread.
• Probiotics: living bacteria and yeasts are beneficial to your body when healing. They help your body digest food and help to fight germs and infections. Probiotics such as miso, pickles, sauerkraut, yogurt
• Meats: The protein and iron provided by meat are essential to repair damaged muscles following surgery. The amino acids help to regenerate tissue and aid in collagen production – protecting the skin and ensuring effective healing. Don’t panic if you don’t eat meat, as you can get your protein from soy or tofu.
• Fats: Healthy fats help your body absorb vitamins from your diet. Strengthening your immune system and decreasing your chance of infection. Fats such as Avocados, Coconut Oil, Olive Oil,
• Fruits: Fruits offer a good dose of vitamins, carbohydrates, fibre and antioxidants. Fruits with vitamin C rebuild collagen and soft tissue, healing your incision site faster. 

If you struggle to get prepared in time and miss some of these foods in your diet, WOW! Mobility has a selection of health supplements to help your body replenish protein and nutrients.