Lanae Mullane, ND’s
Essential Pre-Surgery Nutrients
Protocol overview
Last updated: May 8, 2025
6 Nutrients
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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Log in or sign upFolate
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]
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-Glutamine
5g
Glutamine may support pre-surgical recovery by preserving gut barrier integrity, enhancing immune function, and reducing infection risk. [4]
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]
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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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.
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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