Nutrition After Surgery or Injury: What You Need to Know

Undergoing surgery or experiencing an injury can significantly impact both physical and mental aspects of recovery. While we often focus on physical recovery, the role of nutrition in the healing process is equally important. Beyond simply consuming "anti-inflammatory foods," let's delve into the broader picture and explore how diet can profoundly influence your recovery journey. From providing essential nutrients for tissue repair and immune function to supporting mental well-being and energy levels, nutrition plays a vital role in optimizing your healing process.

Understanding the Surgical/Inflammation Cascade

When you undergo surgery or incur an injury, your body undergoes a significant stress response. This response, often referred to as the "surgical cascade," involves a complex interplay of inflammatory, immune, and metabolic factors. The body's energy demands skyrocket to meet the needs of wound healing, tissue repair, and overall recovery. As a result, the body goes under what’s called hypermetabolic-catabolic state: INCREASED metabolism, BREAKDOWN of muscle. Some hormones that play a role:

• Glucagon

• Cortisol

• Cytokines (Inflammation mediator)

I also want to point out that inflammation is NOT an enemy during the post-surgical or injury process. Taking NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) have been shown to lead to post-surgical complications. Consult with your physician.

The Impact of Poor Nutrition on Muscle Atrophy Post-Surgery

Muscle atrophy, or muscle wasting, is a common occurrence after surgery or injury due to a combination of factors, including inactivity and stress. Poor nutrition can significantly exacerbate this muscle loss which ultimately leads to reduced muscle strength and slower recovery.

Post-surgical and Injury Muscle Loss is a Common Challenge

Let's explore some key approaches:

Protein:

• Essential amino acids: Ensure your protein intake includes all essential amino acids to support whole-body protein synthesis.

• Counteracting catabolism: Adequate protein intake helps counteract the catabolic effects of surgery, injury, and illness, which can break down muscle tissue.

Carbohydrates:

• Glycemic regulation: Carbohydrates can assist in regulating blood sugar levels, especially important during the hypermetabolic state and inflammation following surgery.

• Insulin sensitivity: The body's reduced insulin sensitivity post-surgery can be mitigated with appropriate carbohydrate intake, preventing excessive blood sugar fluctuations.

Conclusion

Remember, every individual's recovery journey is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. By prioritizing nutrition, you can support your body's healing process and optimize your recovery outcomes.

References

1. Hirsch KR, Wolfe R, Ferrando AA. Pre- and Post-Surgical Nutrition for Preservation of Muscle Mass, Strength, and Functionality Following Orthopedic Surgery. Nutrients. 13:1675. 2021.

2. Zhao-Fleming H, Hand A, Zhang K, et al. Effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs on post-surgical complications against the backdrop of the opioid crisis. Burns & Trauma. 2018;6(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s41038-018-0128-x