The human body requires basic things to heal. This includes oxygen, protein, vitamins, and energy in the form of adequate caloric intake and good nutrition.
The body requires oxygen at the healing site, which is carried by the blood. Smoking interferes with the oxygen delivery by occupying a potential oxygen carrying site on the red blood cell. Post-operative smoking cessation is a requirement. A post-operative diet high in calories and protein is required to give the injured site the building blocks needed for healing. Protein helps build the collagen that is the necessary foundation for wound healing and strength. Protein shakes or similar are recommended to boost the circulating available protein for the body to heal itself.
Necessary nutritional supplements include L-arginine, vitamin C, vitamin A, zinc, and iron. These should be taken in increased quantities during the postoperative healing phase:
- L-arginine is considered an essential post-operative amino acid as it enhances protein building needed for healing
- Vitamin C plays an important role as it encourages collagen synthesis needed for healing as well as encourages new blood vessel growth for delivery of essential materials
- Vitamin A actually increases the inflammatory response which may be contra-intuitive but this response is needed for early healing to increase the delivery of blood, oxygen, and nutrients by way of new blood vessels
- Zinc is required by your immune system and healing mechanisms to promote healing and deter infection
- Supplemental iron promotes the oxygen carrying capacity of the red blood cell therefore increases oxygen delivery to the wound. This promotes new cell growth, new blood vessels (angiogenesis), and protein synthesis for wound healing and strength.
We encourage a diet of red and white meats, fish, eggs, dairy, fruits, nuts, and green, leafy vegetables high in nutrients. Supplemental vitamin C, zinc, and iron are encouraged. Also, oral hydration is highly recommended as dehydration can affect the elastic properties and resiliency of the healing tissues.
