“DR. TREVOR” STEFANSKI, M.D.
Minimally Invasive Specialist

Pre-Op Nutrition

Pre-Operative Nutrition Guide

Proper nutrition before surgery plays a critical role in optimizing recovery, reducing complications, and enhancing healing. The goal is to prepare your body with the right balance of nutrients to support immune function, maintain muscle strength, and improve surgical outcomes.

Pre-Surgical Nutrition Goals

  • Reduce inflammation and enhance immune function
  • Maintain muscle mass and strength
  • Optimize hydration and energy levels
  • Improve wound healing and recovery

What to Eat Before Surgery

1-2 Weeks Before Surgery

  • Increase Protein Intake: Lean meats, eggs, fish, tofu, Greek yogurt.
  • Include Healthy Fats: Omega-3 sources like salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts, olive oil.
  • Consume Complex Carbohydrates: Whole grains, sweet potatoes, legumes.
  • Stay Hydrated: Water and electrolyte solutions.
  • Avoid Excess Sugar & Processed Foods: Helps reduce inflammation.
  • Adopt an Anti-Inflammatory Diet: Mediterranean-style diet is recommended.
  • Eliminate Tobacco Use: Stop smoking, vaping, and smokeless tobacco.
  • Limit Alcohol Intake: Maximum of 1 drink per day.
  • Follow a Low Sodium Diet: Reduces swelling and improves circulation.

2-3 Days Before Surgery

  • Focus on Easily Digestible Meals: Lean proteins, cooked vegetables, simple carbohydrates.
  • Consider Pre-Surgical Nutrition Supplements: Formulas designed to enhance recovery.

Pre-Surgical Nutritional Supplement Options

    More Affordable Option: IMPACT® by Nestlé

    • Immunonutrition formula with arginine, omega-3s, nucleotides.
    • Clinically proven to reduce infection and improve recovery.
    • How to Use: Start 5 days before surgery for best results.


    Elite Option: EnRoute Peri-Operative Surgical Shakes

    • Comprehensive nutrition, protein, vitamins, and minerals.
    • Supports muscle health and immune function.
    • Rich in whey protein and HMB to preserve muscle mass.
    • How to Use: Follow pre-op dosing schedule.


Additional Nutritional Supplements:

  • Recommended Vita-Support Diosmin for swelling reduction.
  • Start 2 weeks pre-op and continue 2-4 months post-op.


Night Before Surgery

  • Follow Fasting Instructions: No solid food after midnight.
  • Clear Liquids Allowed: Up to 2 hours before surgery (confirm with surgeon).
  • Recommended Pre-Op Drink: Ensure Pre-Surgical Electrolye drink, or similar electrolyte drink


Next Steps:

✔ Follow this guide carefully to optimize your nutrition before surgery.

✔ Consider ordering the optional recommended supplements to maximize your recovery.

✔ Make your friends jealous with how smooth your recovery went.