Pre & Post-Op Nutrition
What you eat before and after surgery directly affects how well and how quickly you heal. Proper nutrition supports tissue repair, reduces inflammation, and builds the strength you'll need for physical therapy.
Pre & Post-Op Nutrition content
Why Nutrition Matters for Surgery
Surgery places significant demands on the body. Healing requires protein for tissue repair, vitamins and minerals for immune function, and adequate calories to fuel recovery. Patients who are well-nourished going into surgery consistently have better outcomes than those who are not.*
Pre-Op Nutrition Goals
In the weeks before surgery, focus on building nutritional reserves:*
- Increase protein intake. Aim for 1.2–2.0g per kg of body weight daily*
- Prioritize anti-inflammatory foods: colorful vegetables, fatty fish, olive oil, berries
- Reduce alcohol intake significantly in the weeks before surgery
- Stay well hydrated. Aim for at least 8 cups of water per day
- Ensure adequate vitamin D and calcium, especially for bone-related procedures*
- Avoid high-dose supplements that thin the blood (fish oil, vitamin E) in the final week*
Post-Op Nutrition: First Two Weeks
In the immediate post-operative period, appetite is often reduced. Focus on nutrient density over volume:*
- Prioritize protein at every meal to support tissue repair
- Choose soft, easy-to-digest foods if nausea is present
- Continue hydrating because dehydration slows healing and increases fatigue
- Vitamin C supports collagen synthesis. Include citrus, bell peppers, and berries
- Fiber-rich foods and hydration help counteract constipation from pain medications
Post-Op Nutrition: Ongoing Recovery
As activity increases and physical therapy begins, nutritional demands rise to support muscle rebuilding and tissue remodeling:*
- Maintain high protein intake throughout the full rehabilitation period
- Omega-3 fatty acids (salmon, sardines, walnuts, flaxseed) support anti-inflammatory recovery
- Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone healing*
- Zinc (found in meat, legumes, seeds) supports wound healing
- Avoid excessive sugar and processed foods, which promote inflammation
Supplements: A Note of Caution
Many patients ask about supplements to support healing. Always discuss any supplement with Dr. Sonntag or your primary care provider before adding it, especially in the peri-operative period, as some affect bleeding, anesthesia, or wound healing.*
*All content on this page is placeholder guidance. Dr. Sonntag's team will provide instructions specific to your procedure and individual health situation. Always follow the personalized instructions you receive at your pre-operative appointment.
Questions about your recovery?
Call Dr. Sonntag's office. His team is here to help you through every step.
(574) 319-9697Let's get you moving again.
Request a consultation and Dr. Sonntag's team will be in touch, typically within one business day. Most major insurance accepted.