Nutrition &
Weight Optimisation
Being overweight makes the surgical journey more difficult. Reducing excess weight before surgery might help you to have a smooth recovery after surgery. See your GP to plan for some weight loss before surgery if your BMI is > 30.
A healthy diet with a wide variety of foods, the right amount of carbohydrates, fibre, vitamins and minerals, healthy fats and protein will promote:
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Good wound healing
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Getting back on your feet quicker
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Fighting infections more effectively
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Maintaining your strength
Optimising weight and eating well before surgery will give you the best chance of a smooth post-op recovery.
Depending on your weight, it may be appropriate for you to follow a Very Low Energy Diet for a short period of time. Please discuss this option with your GP before starting this on your own.
Patient Resources:
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Get Healthy - Your Free Health Coach (Wellbeing SA)
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Getting started: guidelines for shaping up (Queensland Health)