Surgery Preparation for Older Adults: Nutritional Tips to Reduce Risks

Surgery Preparation for Older Adults: Nutritional Tips to Reduce Risks

Thea Marx

As we age, our bodies require extra care and attention, especially when it comes to preparing for surgery. Muscle loss makes recovery tougher, and a less robust immune system can increase the risk of surgical infections. 


But there’s another challenge that doesn’t get talked about enough—Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction (POCD).  Unlike temporary post-surgical delirium, POCD is a longer-lasting decline in memory and thinking skills, often influenced by anesthesia, surgery, inflammation, and pre-existing conditions. POCD can persist for months, which is why addressing this risk proactively is so important.


Preparation is key to reducing surgical risks and promoting faster recovery. By focusing on protein, immune-boosting nutrients, and staying hydrated, you’re taking control of your health in a meaningful way. 


If you’re facing surgery or have an older loved one in your care, here are some approachable and effective strategies to support your body before surgery.



  1. Prioritize Protein for Healing and Strength

Think of protein as the building block your body needs to repair tissues and support the immune system. Lean meats, eggs, fish, and plant-based options like beans and tofu are excellent choices. If eating large meals feels tough, smaller, nutrient-dense snacks like a handful of nuts or a protein-packed smoothie can do the trick. If digesting protein is an issue, consider a digestive enzyme with every meal. Every bite counts, and the goal is to keep your body strong and ready to heal.


  1. Boost Your Immune System with Key Nutrients

Before surgery, giving your immune system extra support can go a long way. Filling your plate with colorful fruits and vegetables ensures you're getting vitamins and minerals that support healing. Berries, citrus fruits, and leafy greens are full of immune-boosting power. Adding healthy fats like those found in avocados or olive oil helps reduce inflammation. Don't forget about zinc and selenium—these trace minerals are easy to find in everyday foods like seeds, nuts, and fish. A nutrient-rich diet can be your shield against post-surgery complications.


  1. Stay Hydrated to Keep Everything Flowing Smoothly

Dehydration is something many older adults struggle with, but staying well-hydrated is especially important before surgery. Proper hydration helps maintain healthy blood flow, supports kidney function, and can even make anesthesia safer. Aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day, but if plain water doesn’t appeal to you, consider herbal teas or water infused with a slice of fruit. Just be mindful to avoid sugary drinks and excess caffeine (more than 2 cups a day).  When your body is hydrated, it’s better equipped to handle the physical stress of surgery.


  1. Consider a Pre-Surgery Nutrition Drink

Sometimes, getting all the necessary nutrients from food alone can be challenging. That’s where a specialized pre-surgery drink like Vis can help. Vis is formulated to deliver essential vitamins, minerals, and complex carbohydrates in a way that’s easy for your body to absorb and use.  Vis is designed to support your immune system, help manage the body’s stress response to surgery and speed up the healing process. It’s a simple, effective way to ensure your body is fully fueled and ready for what’s ahead.


Vis includes carefully selected ingredients, such as  trehalose, vitamin C, zinc and selenium which are designed to support and protect brain health during the challenges of surgery, such as anesthesia and inflammation. This formulation helps reduce the risk of issues like delirium and postoperative cognitive decline (POCD).


Aging carries its own special concerns and considerations, and every small step you take now can make a big difference later. Be sure to discuss any new nutritional additions with your doctor.




References:

  1. Harvard Health Publishing. (2020). Muscle loss and protein needs in older adults. Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/muscle-loss-and-protein-needs-in-older-adults
  2. Harvard Health Publishing. (2021). 4 essential nutrients: Are you getting enough? Retrieved from https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/4-essential-nutrients-are-you-getting-enough-2021031622124
  3. National Institutes of Health. (2023). Hydrating for health. News in Health. Retrieved from https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2023/05/hydrating-health
  4. Stanford Medicine. (n.d.). Preparing for surgery: Nutrition and hydration tips for older adults. Retrieved from https://stanfordmedicine25.stanford.edu/blog/preparing-for-surgery-nutrition-hydration-tips
  5. National Institutes on Aging, NIH, (2020) Researchers test new approaches to prevent delirium in older adults 
  6. National Library of Medicine, NIH, (2011), Postoperative cognitive disorders
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