3 Nov 2011

Preparing and recovering from surgery

2 mins to read
Naturopath Jennifer McLennan discusses how to help the body prepare and recover from surgery.


Abdominal surgery may be recommended for women for a variety of reasons including, the presence of cysts, fibroids, caesarean section, endometriosis, or even hysterectomy. Here are the top five nutrients for preparing and recovering from abdominal surgery, particularly when fertility needs to be preserved.

1) Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that protects cells from damage. It also helps to promote the production of collagen in the skin and aids wound healing following surgery.

2) Zinc is a mineral involved in multiple processes in the body. Women have a recommended daily intake (RDI) of 8 mg of zinc per day, however it is suggested that only half of women reach the RDI. Zinc is important in wound healing, reduces scarring and helps the immune system fight infection, which are all important factors following surgery.

3) Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin known to help with our vision. Vitamin A is also important in collagen production and helps improve wound healing. Vitamin A can be applied topically to help with scarring or taken internally at a therapeutic dose of 5000 IU for non pregnant women.

4) Vitamin E is another fat-soluble vitamin. It is found in nuts seeds and vegetable oils. It has been shown to help reduce internal and external adhesions and scarring and is therefore an important vitamin for women needing to maintain fertility. Low amounts can be taken prior to surgery, around 100 IU and like Vitamin A, it can be applied externally to help with wound healing.

5) Herbs may be needed post-operatively for women who have had gynecological surgery. This can be recommended by your naturopath or health care professional. Calendula tea always comes to mind as it has been used traditionally to help with pelvic congestion and inflammation. Calendula cream has also traditionally been applied to a closed wound to help with scarring.

You may start taking supplements up to a couple of months prior to surgery, however, it is recommended as a general precaution to stop taking them a week before surgery. Therapy can be recommenced once the surgery has been performed and throughout the healing process.

Although supplements can help with healing and inflammation, rest is one of the most important tools we have in our recovery toolbox. With a desire get back to work and take care of our families, we often neglect our need for recovery, so here are some stock-standard tips for a gold star recovery.

  • Eat small meals frequently. This will maintain blood sugar levels and minimise the burden on the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Eat broths and soups using free range or organic chicken, or tofu. You can add beans or lentils and vegetables, such as potato, carrot, or pumpkin. This will allow for easy digestion and also provide the body with the additional protein required for healing.
  • Start off the day with a good breakfast. This will help to maintain healthy blood sugar levels throughout the day.
  • Choose foods rich in B vitamins, as requirements may be increased when recovering from surgery. B vitamin-rich foods include vegetables, beans and lentils.
  • Avoid caffeine and stimulating foods while the body is healing.


References available upon request
 



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