It is important that you take an active role in your healing process.
- If you are not already taking a high-potency vitamin and mineral supplement, now is the time to start. Your multivitamin should contain at least 750 mg of vitamin C, 15,000 IU Vitamin A (80% beta carotene), and at least 20 mg zinc, and 200 mcg selenium, as these nutrients are especially important to immune function and would healing.
- Two weeks before surgery, increase you intake of Zinc. Discuss with Dr. Caillouette what dosage is best for you specifically – standard is 90 mg per day. Zinc is required for proper cell growth and protein synthesis, two processes that are accelerated during would healing. It is also involved in virtually every aspect of immunity, making it important for preventing infection.
- Drink at least one glass of vegetable juice daily (vary vegetables).
- Practice Guided Imagery. Studies have shown that as little as 10 minutes of using guided imagery can reduce blood loss during surgery and minimize the need for pain medication afterwards. Your local library may have some CDs or DVDs on guided imagery. Check out this Cheat Sheet for New Meditators.
The following supplements should be discontinued 5 days prior to surgery:
Fish Oils, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Glucosamine, and Chondrotin
