Good nutrition plays a critical role in preparing your body for surgery and supporting recovery afterwards. Eating well before and after a procedure can help you heal faster, reduce complications, and return home sooner.
This guide breaks down what to eat, why it matters, and how to optimise your recovery.
Surgery places significant stress on the body. Without proper nutrition, recovery can be slower and the risk of complications increases.
Research shows that good nutrition can:
On the other hand, poor nutrition or malnutrition before surgery is linked to a higher risk of complications and longer recovery times.3
Protein is essential for maintaining muscle and supporting tissue repair. Include protein at every meal, such as:
Your body needs energy to prepare for surgery. Undereating can weaken your immune system and slow healing.
Some surgical protocols recommend a carbohydrate-rich drink a few hours before surgery to help stabilise blood sugar and improve recovery.
Many patients are at risk of malnutrition without realising it. Talk to your healthcare provider about:
Recovery requires more calories and nutrients than usual.
Early nutrition after surgery can help:
Fluids are essential for healing and preventing complications.
Light daily movement (when approved) helps maintain muscle and supports recovery.
Some patients may benefit from specialised nutrition formulas that support immune function and reduce post-surgical complications.
Before surgery, it’s important to clarify your nutrition plan. Consider asking:
In addition to protein, overall nutrition plays a critical role in healthy aging. Oral Nutritional Supplements (ONS) like Ensure* can be used to meet the daily requirements of protein, calories, vitamins and minerals. If you’re concerned about your muscle health or want to learn more, speak to your GP, dietitian or other relevant healthcare professional.
Preparing for surgery isn’t just about the procedure , it’s about how well your body is fuelled
to handle it.
By focusing on nutrition before and after surgery, you can:
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*Food for Special Medical Purposes. Use under medical supervision.
References:
1. Drover JW et al. J Am Coll Surg. 2011;212(3):385–99. 2. Having Surgery: Good Nutrition Makes a Difference, Abbott Nutrition Health Institute, Accessed at: https://www.anhi.org/content/dam/an/anhi/pdf/ANHI_Infographic-Good%20Nutrition%20Before%20and%20After%20Surgery_tcm1423-175805.pdf?, Accessed April 2026. 3. Saunders J, et al. Clin Med. 2010;10(6):624-7
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