Yes, there’s a lot
you can do.
Getting yourself in the
best possible physical
condition will help
you recover faster and
decrease your risk of
complications. Begin
by asking your surgeon
what he or she recommends
for your particular
procedure. Regular
exercise—even just a
daily 30-minute walk—is
usually a great idea.
In the weeks or
months before your
surgery, stay hydrated
and eat a balanced diet,
with plenty of lean protein
(like chicken, fish,
and beans) and lots of
antioxidants (found in
fruits and vegetables).
Protein is key for cell
recovery, while antioxidants
promote healing
and boost your immune
system by fighting free
radicals, thus reducing
the odds of a postoperative
infection.
One thing I always
say to avoid before surgery
is taking any new
supplements, herbal
or otherwise, unless
speciÀcally prescribed
by your doctor. Some,
like omega-3 fatty acids
and ginseng, may cause
surgical complications
such as increased bleeding;
others may interfere
with anesthesia. And,
of course, if you’re a
smoker, stop. In addition
to taking a toll on
your lungs, smoking
slows wound healing.
Last but not least,
mentally prepare. Because
stress negatively
impacts the immune
system, your outlook
about the procedure can
have a huge impact on
how well you tolerate it
and recover. Try some
gentle yoga (if you can
handle it), meditation,
or deep breathing to
stay calm and centered
before the big day.
Source by: Travis Stork, MD, is an ER
physician, cohost of TV’s The
Doctors, and the author of
The Lean Belly Prescription.
