Article written by Vilas Saldanha, MD, MBA
A healthy diet can be your strongest ally before and after orthopedic surgery. The importance of nutrition in this context cannot be overstated. As the adage goes, “you are what you eat,” and in the case of surgery, what you eat may play a critical role in your recovery.
Eating Right for Optimal Recovery
Having a well-balanced diet packed with all the necessary nutrients is essential for a successful surgery and swift recovery. Here are the vital macronutrients and their best food sources:
- **Protein:** Proteins are the building blocks of our body and play a significant role in wound healing and immune function. Sources include lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, and lentils[^1^].
- **Carbohydrates:** They serve as the primary energy source for your body. Opt for complex carbohydrates found in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables[^2^].
- **Fats:** Healthy fats, particularly Omega-3 fatty acids, can help reduce inflammation. Find them in fatty fish, avocados, nuts, and seeds[^3^].
Your body also requires a variety of vitamins and minerals. For instance, Vitamin C plays a role in collagen formation, a key component in tissue repair[^4^]. You can find Vitamin C in fruits like oranges, strawberries, and in vegetables like bell peppers and broccoli. Vitamin D and calcium are also important for bone health, found in fortified dairy products, fatty fish, and sunlight[^5^].
Smoking and Surgery – A Risky Combination
We strongly recommend patients to stop smoking prior to surgery. Smoking can interfere with wound healing, prolong recovery, and increase the risk of complications[^6^].
The Take-Home Points
- **Eat a balanced diet:** Prioritize proteins, complex carbs, and healthy fats. A colorful plate usually means a variety of nutrients, crucial for healing.
- **Vitamins are vital:** Particularly Vitamin C for tissue repair and Vitamin D with calcium for bone health.
- **Stop smoking:** Smoking can increase the risk of complications and delay healing.
- **Stay hydrated:** Drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, to help your body function optimally.
In conclusion, good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle are key to getting back on your feet after orthopedic surgery. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional or a dietitian for personalized advice.
[^1^]: Hoffer, L.J., Bistrian, B.R. (2012). Appropriate protein provision in critical illness: a systematic and narrative review. *American Journal of Clinical Nutrition*, 96(3), 591-600. [^2^]: Wolfram, T. (2017). What are carbohydrates?. *Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics*. [^3^]: Calder, P.C. (2013). Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and inflammatory processes: Nutrition or pharmacology?. *British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology*, 75(3), 645–662. [^4^]: Pullar, J.M., Carr, A.C., Vissers, M.C. (2017). The Roles of Vitamin C in Skin Health. *Nutrients*, 9(8), 866. [^5^]: Laird, E., Rhys, M., Kenny, R.A. (2020). Vitamin D and Bone Health; Potential Mechanisms. *Nutrients*, 2(7), 693. [^6^]: Sørensen, L.T. (2012). Wound healing and infection in surgery: the pathophysiological impact of smoking, smoking cessation, and nicotine replacement therapy: a systematic review. *Annals of Surgery*, 255(6), 1069–1079.
