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Nutrition for surgery



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seof
Posts: 481
Joined: Jun 2007
October 28, 2009 - 6:42pm

Hello ladies (and Gents, if you are there)
I just wanted to share something I have learned the hard way. I have had reconstruction surgery (DIEP procedure) and have had some complications with recovery. Each visit to the Dr. he kept asking me how my nutrition was, and if I was getting enough protein. Being a layperson and not a nutritionist or a Dr. I said I thought so. After all, I eat meat 3 times a day and eat a variety of veggies as well, so why not? To make a long story short, his nurse finally said I should be taking protien supplements, and suggested protein "shots" (fruit flavored liquid in small plastic bottles that look like oversized test tubes). Each one has 23-25 grams of protein. I started taking 2 of those a day plus 1000 mg vitamin C, zinc, and vitamin E, and recovery has been MUCH faster! Sooo...if any of you are planning surgery, ask your Dr. aabout taking the above supplements.

Live as well as you can for as long as you can. seof

always's picture
always
Posts: 257
Joined: Oct 2009
October 28, 2009 - 7:42pm

Thanks for passing on the advise. Glad to hear you are recovering better.

becky

cindycflynn's picture
cindycflynn
Posts: 1138
Joined: Oct 2009
October 28, 2009 - 8:07pm

It seems like most of us can have a tendency to trust a little too much and either be afraid to ask a question (like, What is "enough" protein, doc?) Or just not know what to ask.

That's what I love about this board - so many real experiences!

Thanks again,
Cindy

VickiSam's picture
VickiSam
Posts: 5561
Joined: Aug 2009
October 28, 2009 - 11:07pm

and advise.

Surgery pending .... I appreciate the information.

Thank you,

VickiSam

survivorbc09's picture
survivorbc09
Posts: 3462
Joined: Jun 2009
October 29, 2009 - 12:11am

Thanks for the info. Never heard of this.

Akiss4me's picture
Akiss4me
Posts: 2200
Joined: May 2009
October 30, 2009 - 10:08am

Thanks for the info! Where can you purchase these protein shots? Drug store or grocery store? I am having a difficult time healing from my most recent surgery and was also told extra protein on my very first surgery. I am considering this option. Thanks...Pammy

Momof_4
Posts: 11
Joined: Oct 2009
October 31, 2009 - 12:14am

Thanks so much for the recommendation. I am planning to have DIEP surgery in a few weeks - any other tips on how to help my recovery would be appreciated! Blessings on you, Momof_4

20questions
Posts: 23
Joined: Jun 2009
November 11, 2009 - 6:24pm

This is from the reconstruction booklet we provide to our patients.....

"Protein Status: Protein is a very important component to the healing process. There is a recommended formula to calculate the amount of protein you should have in your specific diet pre and post operatively:
Your Weight In kg x 2 = Grams of Protein Daily
(to convert pounds to kg you divide your weight in pounds by 2.2)
Take Multivitamins: Start taking multivitamins (with Vitamin C and iron) twice daily to improve your general health prior to surgery."