Ways to Stay Healthy Before A Surgery

Good pre-surgery preparations can contribute to a better recovery experience

By Azra Shuib | November 5th, 2021

If you are scheduled for surgery, you should know that the right preparation steps in the days or weeks before can increase the chances of a successful outcome. In fact, adopting a healthier lifestyle early before the scheduled date can boost recovery post-surgery.

Here are some tips to get healthier ahead of your surgery.

Tip #1 - Eat a healthy diet

In weeks or months leading up to the surgery, eat foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, as overall inflammation can stem from your diet. You should focus more on consuming sufficient fruits and vegetables daily. Foods like red meat, processed foods and others that are difficult to break down should be avoided in large portions, as this type of diet can increase inflammatory markers as your body prepares for a shock that is coming.

Your pre-surgery diet should comprise of:

• Fruits and vegetables. They help to maintain weight, increase energy, promote healing and are rich in vitamin C, which is important in recovery as it promotes collagen production.


• Slow carbohydrates like rice and pasta. They enhance digestion, which is critical prior to acute medical treatments since bodily suspension during surgery causes constipation. Fast carbs also aid in mood improvement and stimulate the creation of serotonin, also known as the "happiness hormone," which can be hindered by a lack of motor activity and exercise.


• Proteins. They help the muscles which will be inactive for a few weeks after the surgery since you would need to rest. Good sources of proteins are chicken, fish, eggs and seafood.

Apart from that, you should watch the supplements you are taking prior to surgery. Reduce or stop taking vitamin E, omega 3 supplements as they can thin the blood and increase the risk of bleeding. If you are on any medications, you should consult with the doctor before stopping them.

Tip #2 - Exercise regularly

By being more active prior to surgery, you can increase the chances of walking sooner after the surgery. You do not need to jump straight into doing vigorous exercises if you are not used to it, as this may lead to injury. Instead, target 5,000 to 10,000 steps daily to increase stamina. 

Besides that, there are two types of exercises you can try; anaerobic and aerobic exercise. Anaerobic exercise, commonly known as weight or strength training, helps you burn calories quicker by increasing bone density and muscle mass in your body. Aerobic exercise, which includes activities like swimming and jogging, burns calories by building endurance and strengthening heart and lung capacity.

Tip #3 - Get enough sleep

A healthy diet and active lifestyle should be complemented with enough slumber. It is the chance for your body to heal itself, and one of the necessary steps to cure all illnesses. Target 8 hours of sleep every night to let your body recover and strengthen the immune system.

You can get enough sleep by going to sleep at the same time each night, and getting up at the same time each morning. Besides that, refrain from caffeine and alcohol late in the day, avoid nicotine and unplug from your devices at least 1 hour before bedtime.

Tip #4 - Kick unhealthy habits

The time you have before surgery is a good time to quit smoking and drinking. In a few days before surgery, alcohol and smoking can affect the anesthesia. Therefore, to increase the surgery’s effectiveness and safety, you should kick unhealthy habits immediately and engage in healthier, stress-relieving activities. This can be a daily morning walk, meditation or simple body stretches to boost your overall health.

Tip #5 - Ensure your underlying conditions are controlled

Doctors would ask you about your medical history, which you should always answer honestly. You may also need to undergo some medical tests and submit previous health records. Ensure that underlying conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and other conditions are under control by following the doctor’s advice - and it’s necessary to be reminded that going to surgery while you are feeling sick is not a good idea.

Tip #6 - Plan your journey ahead

If you are getting your treatments far from home or even overseas, you should plan your journey ahead of time. Give ample time for you to get comfortable at the hotel or the location, and give enough days or weeks to recover at the destination. Going elsewhere for surgery is also a brilliant opportunity to rest in private and avoid chores at home; so give yourself enough time to enjoy your medical getaway.

For better preparation, book your treatment ahead of time and conveniently through Trambellir. Our affiliated medical institutions in popular destinations are safe and provide high-quality care. To learn more about your medical tourism opportunities, explore more on our website.

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