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Essential Pre-Surgery Nutrients

Protocol overview

Compare your current stack nutrients to the outlined protocol recommendations.

Preparing for surgery includes more than just logistics, it also involves ensuring your body is nutritionally supported during this period of increased physiological demand. This protocol brings together targeted nutrients that are studied for their roles in tissue support, metabolic function, and immune readiness. Each ingredient has been selected to align with the body’s natural repair and recovery pathways.

Protein plays a central role in pre-surgical nutrition. A high-quality source, such as bone broth protein, delivers essential amino acids needed for tissue repair and immune support. Taking protein throughout the day helps maintain amino acid availability during the perioperative window. Complementing this, L-glutamine supports gut barrier integrity and immune system balance, two important functions often impacted by surgical stress.

Vitamin C, included at higher levels during the days leading up to surgery, may support collagen formation and antioxidant function. Zinc is another key player, with established roles in tissue synthesis and immune defense. Both are involved in normal wound healing and may help maintain physiological readiness. Arginine, an amino acid known to support nitric oxide production and circulation, complements this by supporting nutrient delivery and cellular function.

To round out this approach, active-form folate contributes to red blood cell formation and energy metabolism, which are essential during times of increased physical stress. Together, these nutrients provide foundational support for pre-surgical preparation without overcomplicating the routine.

This protocol is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease. Always follow individual recommendations provided by your health care and/or surgical team. Avoid starting new supplements within 48 hours of surgery unless otherwise directed.

Last updated: May 8, 2025


6 Nutrients

Ar

Arginine

1000mg

Arginine may support pre-surgical recovery by enhancing wound healing, immune function, and nitric oxide production for improved circulation. [1]

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Fo

Folate

920mcg DFE

B vitamins, particularly B6, B9 (folate), and B12, play a key role in methylation, red blood cell production, and nerve health. In pre-surgical settings, they help mitigate homocysteine spikes, support energy metabolism, and promote tissue repair and recovery. [2]

C

Vitamin C

2000mg

Vitamin C may play a role in pre-surgery support by promoting collagen synthesis, immune function, and antioxidant defense. Research shows adequate vitamin C levels are associated with improved wound healing and reduced risk of postoperative complications. [3]

L-G

L-Glutamine

5g

Glutamine may support pre-surgical recovery by preserving gut barrier integrity, enhancing immune function, and reducing infection risk. [4]

Pr

Protein

30g

Protein may play a role in pre-surgical preparation by supporting wound healing, immune function, and tissue repair. Adequate protein intake before surgery is associated with improved recovery outcomes. [5]

Zi

Zinc

15mg

Zinc supports pre-surgical preparation by aiding in immune defense, tissue repair, and wound healing. Research shows adequate zinc status may be associated with faster recovery, reduced infection risk, and improved collagen synthesis following surgery. [6]


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Recommended for Vitamin C, Arginine, Folate.
Servings
60.0
Price/serv
$1.17
From
$70.00
Format
capsule
Recommended for L-Glutamine.
Servings
60.0
Price/serv
$0.65
From
$38.95
Format
scoop
Recommended for Protein.
Servings
30.0
Price/serv
$3.31
From
$99.22
Format
powder
Recommended for Zinc.
Servings
60.0
Price/serv
$0.20
From
$12.00
Format
capsule

Warnings

Do not use this protocol within 48 hours of surgery unless otherwise directed. Not intended for individuals who are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications without medical supervision. Always consult your surgical team before starting any new supplement regimen.


Disclaimer

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any products and informational content displayed on this page are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

While this Protocol has been created by health experts, it is educational in nature and not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or take medications.


  1. Weimann, A., Braga, M., Carli, F., Higashiguchi, T., Hübner, M., Laviano, A., ... & Bischoff, S. C. (2017). ESPEN guideline: Clinical nutrition in surgery. Clinical Nutrition, 36(3), 623–650. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2017.02.013
  2. Rao, L. K., Francis, A. M., Wilcox, U., Miller, J. P., & Nagele, P. (2010). Pre-operative vitamin B infusion and prevention of nitrous oxide-induced homocysteine increase. Anaesthesia, 65(7), 710–715. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1365-2044.2010.06375.x
  3. Athanasiou, A., Charalambous, M., Anastasiou, T., Aggeli, K., & Soteriades, E. S. (2024). Preoperative and postoperative administration of vitamin C in cardiac surgery patients—Settings, dosages, duration, and clinical outcomes: A narrative review. Annals of Medicine and Surgery (Lond), 86(6), 3591–3607. https://doi.org/10.1097/MS9.0000000000002112
  4. Wischmeyer, P. E., McDonald, D., & Frank, S. M. (2023). Personalized prehabilitation nutrition for surgical patients: A narrative review. Perioperative Medicine, 12, 33. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13741-023-00289-w
  5. Weimann, A., Braga, M., Carli, F., Higashiguchi, T., Hübner, M., Laviano, A., Ljungqvist, O., Montoya, S., Schindler, K., Valentini, L., & Bischoff, S. C. (2017). ESPEN guideline: Clinical nutrition in surgery. Clinical Nutrition, 36(3), 623–650. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.clnu.2017.02.013
  6. Van Puffelen, E., van den Berg, M., van Leeuwen, B. L., de van der Schueren, M. A. E., & Kruizenga, H. M. (2024). Nutritional prehabilitation to improve postoperative outcomes. Nutrients, 16(2), 244. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16020244