Supplements for Surgery and Procedures

Your doctor may ask you to stop some medications and supplements prior to surgery. Please be specific about all the things you are taking on a regular basis. This includes supplements, vitamins and teas. There are some supplements that can interfere with wound healing or may cause negative reactions during surgery or procedures.

Probiotics

A healthy gut is so important for general health. If your gut does not have a healthy supply of good bacteria, it can be difficult to fight disease and may contribute to irritability. Ask your doctor if probiotics might be a healthy addition to your surgery preparation and recovery.  This is particularly important if you are prescribed antibiotics following surgery or procedure.  Antibiotics can kill good bacteria in the system and leave you vulnerable to additional health issues.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is needed to make a protein called collagen and is needed for repairing tendons, ligaments and healing surgical wounds. Vitamin C can be found in citrus fruits, strawberries, kiwi fruit, baked potatoes, broccoli and bell peppers.

Vitamin D and Calcium

Calcium and vitamin D are nutrients important to form healthy bones. If your surgery or procedure is related to your bones, be sure to get enough of these nutrients from supplements or things like dairy products. Talk to your doctor about the right amount for you.

Fiber

Many pain medications can cause constipation. Make sure that you eat plenty of fiber and drink lots of water to help relieve these symptoms. Certain fruits such as prunes or prune juice are helpful along with lots of other fruits and vegetables.  You can also try Psyllium Husk Fibre Oral Powder to treat constipation

Important Notice: Talk to your doctor and/or a qualified herbalist before beginning use of supplements or botanicals. Supplements are botanicals in highly concentrated form and can interfere with other medications and have undesired side effects. The botanicals listed above can cause drowsiness and are likely to impair your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. We do not recommend taking ANY essential oils internally. The supplement and botanical industry is not well regulated at this time. Ask a trusted source for recommended brands and choose organic options when possible.