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

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

IMPACT Pre-Surgical Drink

IMPACT is an immunonutrition formula with arginine, omega-3s, and nucleotides. It is clinically proven to reduce infection and improve recovery.

How to Use: Start 5 days before surgery for best results.

Order IMPACT Pre-Surgical Drink from Amazon

Elite Option: EnRoute Peri-Operative Surgical Shakes

EnRoute Surgical Shake

A comprehensive nutrition shake packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals to support muscle health and immune function. Rich in whey protein and HMB to preserve muscle mass.

How to Use: Follow pre-op dosing schedule.

Order EnRoute Surgical Shakes

Additional Nutritional Supplements

Vita-Support Diosmin

  • Recommended: Vita-Support Diosmin – Helps with swelling reduction.
  • How to Use: Start 2 weeks pre-op and continue 2-4 months post-op.

Order Vita-Support Diosmin & Hesperidin from Amazon

Night Before Surgery

Ensure Pre-Surgical Electrolyte Drink

  • 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 Electrolyte Drink or a similar electrolyte drink.

Order Ensure Pre-Op Electrolyte Drink from Amazon

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.