March is National Nutrition Month--a perfect time to highlight how diet impacts your orthopedic surgery recovery. The right foods can strengthen your body, reduce inflammation, and promote faster healing. Prioritizing proper nutrition before surgery lays the groundwork for a smoother, more successful recovery. Here are the key nutrients to focus on to optimize your body for surgery and beyond.
Key Nutrients for Pre-Surgery Preparation
Protein: The Building Block for Recovery
Protein is crucial for tissue repair and muscle preservation. Before surgery, aim for high-quality protein sources such as lean meats, fish, eggs, dairy, and plant-based options like lentils and beans. Protein supports collagen formation, which is essential for wound healing and strong connective tissues.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Reduce Inflammation
Healthy fats, particularly omega-3s found in salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, help decrease inflammation. Lowering inflammation before surgery can reduce post-operative pain and improve mobility during recovery.
Vitamin C: Boost Collagen Production
Vitamin C plays a vital role in collagen synthesis, which is essential for wound healing and tissue repair. Load up on citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, and leafy greens to ensure your body has the nutrients it needs for optimal healing.
Vitamin D and Calcium: Strengthen Your Bones
Strong bones are essential for successful orthopedic procedures. Ensure you're getting enough calcium from dairy, fortified plant-based alternatives, and leafy greens, while also maintaining sufficient vitamin D levels from sunlight exposure or supplements.
Zinc: Speed Up Tissue Repair
Zinc is another key nutrient that helps with wound healing and immune function. Foods rich in zinc include lean meats, shellfish, nuts, and seeds.
Hydration: The Overlooked Essential
Proper hydration supports circulation, nutrient delivery, and toxin removal, all of which contribute to a smoother recovery. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water per day and limit caffeine and alcohol.
Fuel Your Body for a Strong Recovery
A well-balanced diet before surgery can give you the best chance at a faster, smoother recovery. By focusing on essential nutrients, you can support your body’s healing process and improve your surgical outcome. At NJOI, we emphasize a comprehensive approach to orthopedic care, including guidance on pre-surgery nutrition.
AUTHOR: Dr. Robert Palacios is board-certified, fellowship-trained, and specializes in outpatient orthopedics and sports medicine. Dr. Palacios has been a team physician for Montclair State University since 1992 and a team physician for Seton Hall University since 2002. He is also the team physician for many high schools in the tri-county area. Dr. Palacios's accomplishments include receiving the Medical Teacher of the Year award from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine.
