When preparing for surgery, ensuring your lab results are within the ideal range is crucial to minimize risks and improve recovery outcomes. Labs like your complete blood count (CBC), coagulation profile, electrolytes, and liver/kidney function are all vital markers that are checked before surgery. Be sure you read to the end Here’s how diet plays a significant role in optimizing these lab values.
1. Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The CBC evaluates your red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. To optimize these values, particularly your hemoglobin and platelet levels, you should focus on foods that are rich in iron, folate, and vitamin B12.
- Iron-rich foods: Lean meats, spinach, lentils, beans, and fortified cereals.
- Low iron can lead to anemia, which could delay surgery.
- Folate: Found in leafy greens like spinach and kale, as well as citrus fruits, avocados, and lentils.
- Low folate levels can result in megaloblastic anemia, impacting recovery.
- Vitamin B12: Eggs, fish, and dairy products support red blood cell production.
- B12 deficiency can result in nerve and blood complications that may hinder surgery.
Things to Avoid:
- Alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can decrease platelet production and impair clotting. Limit or avoid alcohol for at least two weeks before surgery.
- High-fat foods: Saturated and trans fats can interfere with platelet function and increase the risk of bleeding.
- Ginger, gingko biloba, garlic, cranberry juice, aspartame, quinine and turmeric: While these are healthy in moderation, they may thin the blood and reduce platelet function, so avoid excess intake in the weeks leading up to surgery.
Reasons your Platelete levels have dropped before surgery
- Dietary Changes: Significant changes in your diet can impact platelet production. For instance, a diet low in iron, folate, or vitamin B12 can lead to decreased platelet counts, especially if those nutrients are not replenished.
- Medications: Certain medications, including over-the-counter anti-inflammatories like aspirin or prescription anticoagulants, can affect platelet function and production. If you started any new medications or changed dosages, it could explain the drop in levels.
- Illness or Infection: Recent infections or illnesses can temporarily reduce platelet counts. Viral infections, in particular, are known to affect bone marrow, where platelets are produced, leading to decreased levels.
- Chronic Conditions: Underlying health issues such as liver disease, kidney dysfunction, or autoimmune disorders can affect platelet production. These conditions might not have been previously diagnosed but could contribute to changes in platelet counts.
- Alcohol Consumption: Increased alcohol intake can suppress bone marrow function and lead to lower platelet counts. If your alcohol consumption has changed recently, it could impact your levels.
- Stress and Hormonal Changes: High stress levels or hormonal imbalances can influence blood cell production. Stress may affect your immune system and could lead to variations in lab results.
- Bone Marrow Disorders: Although less common, conditions that affect bone marrow function, such as leukemia or aplastic anemia, can lead to decreased platelet production. These conditions may develop over time and become more apparent during routine testing.
For further information, consider reading sources that discuss these factors in detail, such as medical literature on platelet counts and health conditions that can affect them. Always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the specific cause in your situation and get personalized advice.
2. PT (Prothrombin Time) – Coagulation Function
Prothrombin Time (PT) is a test that measures how long it takes for your blood to clot. It is essential in evaluating how well your blood-clotting process works, which is important for surgical procedures. High PT levels may indicate a risk of excessive bleeding during surgery, while lower levels suggest the blood clots too quickly.
Foods to Include:
- Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, and collard greens are rich in vitamin K, which is essential for proper clotting.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds and walnuts provide healthy fats and nutrients that support cardiovascular health.
- Fish: Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can help balance clotting factors
Foods to Avoid:
- High Vitamin K Foods: If you’re on anticoagulants, limit foods high in vitamin K, such as broccoli and Brussels sprouts, as they can interfere with medication effectiveness.
- Processed Foods: These can contain unhealthy fats and high sodium levels, which may affect overall health.
Note:
If you are taking blood thinners or have clotting disorders, consult your doctor before significantly altering your vitamin K intake.
3. Diet for Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Electrolytes
Electrolyte levels, such as potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium, are crucial for proper muscle, nerve, and fluid balance, especially during and after surgery.
- Potassium: Bananas, avocados, potatoes, and spinach can help maintain optimal potassium levels.
- Low or high potassium can lead to cardiac issues, so maintaining balance is key.
- Magnesium: Almonds, spinach, and whole grains.
- A deficiency can cause muscle spasms and irregular heartbeats.
- Calcium: Found in dairy products and fortified plant-based milks, calcium supports nerve transmission and muscle function.
- Imbalanced calcium can cause bone and muscle weakness during recovery.
Things to Avoid:
- Excessive salt, which can throw off sodium balance and lead to fluid retention.
4. Blood Glucose Levels
If you’re diabetic or at risk for high blood sugar, managing your blood glucose is crucial for surgery. High glucose can increase the risk of infection and delay healing.
- Low-glycemic foods: Leafy greens, whole grains (quinoa, brown rice), legumes, lean proteins, and berries help maintain balanced glucose levels.
Avoid:
- Simple sugars, processed foods, and refined carbs that can spike blood glucose levels.
5. Liver Function
A liver function test (LFT) evaluates how well your liver metabolizes drugs and detoxifies your body. Ensuring optimal liver health before surgery is vital to handle anesthesia and medications.
- Liver-boosting foods: Beets, artichokes, garlic, onions, and turmeric support liver detoxification.
- Antioxidants: Found in berries and green tea, antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and improve liver function.
- Milk Thistle (Silymarin): This herb is a well-known liver tonic that can protect liver cells from toxins and aid in their regeneration. Milk thistle may also help increase levels of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant important for detoxification.
- Turmeric (Curcumin): Turmeric’s active compound, curcumin, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, supporting liver health by enhancing the liver’s natural detoxification pathways.
- N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC): NAC is a precursor to glutathione, one of the body’s most important antioxidants. It helps replenish glutathione levels, protecting the liver from damage caused by oxidative stress and toxins.
- Dandelion Root: Dandelion root is traditionally used to support liver function and detoxification. It stimulates bile production, aiding digestion and helping the liver process and eliminate toxins.
- Alpha-Lipoic Acid (ALA): ALA is an antioxidant that supports liver function by reducing oxidative stress. It can also help regenerate other antioxidants like glutathione.
- Choline: This nutrient is essential for fat metabolism in the liver, preventing fatty liver and supporting detoxification. It plays a key role in processing fats and eliminating toxins from the body.
- Artichoke Extract: Artichoke helps stimulate bile flow and improve digestion, supporting liver detoxification. It may also protect liver cells from damage.
- Green Tea Extract: Rich in catechins, green tea extract may improve liver function and protect against oxidative stress.
- Broccoli Sprout Extract (Sulforaphane): Sulforaphane supports the liver’s detoxification enzymes, improving its ability to process toxins.
- Glutathione: Taking glutathione directly or its precursors like NAC can support the liver’s detoxification processes, helping to neutralize free radicals and toxins.
Things to Avoid:
- Alcohol and processed foods that can burden your liver and reduce its ability to function during surgery.
6. Kidney Function
Kidney function tests ensure your kidneys can handle fluid balance and medication clearance during surgery. Drinking plenty of water and maintaining balanced nutrition can help.
- Kidney-supportive foods: Cucumbers, cranberries, leafy greens, and watermelon help maintain hydration and kidney function.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids particularly those found in fish oil, have anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce inflammation in the kidneys and improve their function. Omega-3s can also help control blood pressure, a key factor in maintaining kidney health.
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect the kidneys from oxidative stress and damage caused by toxins and free radicals. It is also involved in energy production, which supports overall organ function.
- Vitamin D plays a role in calcium metabolism and helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels, both important for kidney function. It can also reduce inflammation in the kidneys and promote bone health, which can be compromised by kidney disease.
- N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) is known for its ability to replenish glutathione, which is vital for kidney detoxification processes. It also helps protect the kidneys from oxidative stress, particularly in people with chronic kidney disease.
- Magnesium is crucial for regulating blood pressure and improving insulin sensitivity, both of which are important in supporting healthy kidney function. It also helps prevent the formation of kidney stones.
- Astragalus is an herb traditionally used in Chinese medicine for supporting kidney health. It has anti-inflammatory properties and may help improve kidney function by supporting the immune system and increasing the elimination of waste products.
- Alpha Lipoic Acid (ALA) is an antioxidant that protects the kidneys from oxidative stress and may help regenerate other antioxidants in the body. It can help reduce inflammation and support overall kidney function.
- Dandelion Root acts as a natural diuretic, helping to increase urine production and flushing out toxins from the kidneys. It is also rich in antioxidants, which can help protect kidney cells from damage.
- B-Complex Vitamins especially B6, B12, and folic acid, support kidney health by reducing homocysteine levels in the blood, which may contribute to kidney damage. B-vitamins are also important for energy production and detoxification.
- Probiotics may play a role in reducing the build-up of uremic toxins, which are harmful to the kidneys. By improving gut health, probiotics can indirectly support kidney function.
- Resveratrol is an antioxidant found in grapes and berries that can help reduce inflammation and protect the kidneys from damage due to oxidative stress.
Avoid:
- Excessive sodium, which can stress the kidneys and cause fluid retention.
7. Lipid Profile
Your lipid profile, which includes cholesterol levels, is crucial for heart health, particularly during surgery. A balanced diet rich in fiber and healthy fats can optimize your lipid levels.
- Healthy fats: Olive oil, fatty fish (like salmon), and flaxseeds help manage cholesterol.
- Fiber-rich foods: Oats, beans, and lentils help lower LDL (“bad” cholesterol) and promote cardiovascular health.
Avoid:
- Trans fats and saturated fats from fried foods and processed snacks, which can increase the risk of heart complications during surgery.
Factors That Can Cause Irregular Lab Results
Besides diet, other factors can affect your pre-surgery lab results, such as:
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough water can lead to high hematocrit levels, indicating thicker blood, which can increase the risk of clotting.
- Medications: Certain over-the-counter medications, such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can affect platelet function.
- Infections or Illnesses: Viral infections, even mild ones, can temporarily lower platelet counts. It’s important to inform your surgeon of any recent illnesses.
- Stress: High stress levels can affect your immune system and raise cortisol levels, which could skew certain blood results.
Diet Summary for Optimal Lab Results
By focusing on nutrient-dense, whole foods, you can support key aspects of your health and improve the results of your pre-surgery labs:
- For Healthy Blood Levels: Eat iron-rich meats, leafy greens, and B12-rich foods.
- For Clotting: Include vitamin K-rich foods like kale and spinach.
- For Electrolytes: Stay hydrated with water, and consume foods like bananas, spinach, and almonds.
- For Blood Sugar: Opt for low-glycemic foods like whole grains and leafy greens.
- For Liver and Kidney Health: Support detoxification with antioxidant-rich foods and drink plenty of water.
- For Lipid Profile: Prioritize fiber and healthy fats to manage cholesterol.
Sample Meal Plan
● Breakfast:
○ Oatmeal with flaxseeds, topped with mixed berries
○ 1 boiled egg for extra protein
● Snack:
○ Handful of almonds and an apple
● Lunch:
○ Grilled chicken breast with quinoa and sautéed spinach
○ Side of mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, broccoli)
● Snack:
○ Greek yogurt with a tablespoon of chia seeds
● Dinner:
○ Baked salmon with sweet potato and a side salad (with olive oil dressing)
○ Steamed green beans
● Evening Snack:
○ Cottage cheese with a few slices of avocado
Supplements to Consider
- Milk Thistle: Supports liver function and detoxification.
- Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): Helps protect kidney function and supports overall organ health.
- Iron Supplement: If dietary intake is insufficient, a gentle iron supplement may be helpful to improve hemoglobin levels.
Pre-Surgery Guidelines Summary
1. Focus on a diet high in protein, vitamins, and healthy fats to support healing.
2. Hydrate well, and avoid alcohol, caffeine, and excessive salt.
3. Stop smoking and avoid certain supplements that may interfere with surgery.
4. Maintain regular exercise and a healthy weight leading up to surgery.
5. Manage stress with relaxation techniques for a smoother recovery.
These guidelines will help you prepare your body for surgery and optimize your recovery
process. Be sure to follow your surgeon’s specific advice, as they may have additional
recommendations tailored to your surgery and medical history.
Download Meal Plan here Meal Plan MCC Lower BMI and Improve Pre Labs
Consult with Your Doctor
Although diet plays a key role in optimizing your pre-surgery health, always consult with your doctor or nutritionist for personalized advice based on your unique health needs and the type of surgery you’re undergoing. They can guide you on specific foods or supplements that may help ensure your lab results are within the ideal range for a successful surgery. A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is essential for preparing your body for cosmetic surgery. By focusing on iron, vitamin C, folate, and other essential nutrients, you can support your blood platelet levels and optimize your lab results. At the same time, avoid foods and substances that might interfere with blood clotting or healing. Proper preparation can help ensure a smooth surgery and recovery process.