Undergoing surgery is a major event for the body, requiring careful preparation to ensure the best possible outcome and a smooth recovery.
While most people focus on pre-operative instructions like fasting or medication adjustments, nutrition and supplementation play a crucial role in healing, immune function, and reducing complications after surgery.
Certain vitamins, minerals, and herbal supplements can enhance the body’s ability to heal, reduce inflammation, and strengthen the immune system.
However, not all supplements are beneficial before surgery—some may increase bleeding risk, interfere with anesthesia, or overstimulate the immune system, potentially leading to complications during or after the procedure.
If you’re wondering about the best supplements to take before surgery, you’re not alone.
Proper supplementation can support your body’s ability to heal and recover while also reducing potential risks.
The key is knowing which supplements to take, which to avoid, and when to stop or start them in the days before surgery.
In this guide, we explain the research behind pre-surgery supplementation.
We hope this information will help you make informed choices about what to include and what to leave out to optimize your body’s ability to heal.
We’ll explain all the supplements we recommend for the healing process and the dietary supplements that could make your healing experience slower or riskier.
Best Supplements to Take Before Surgery
Preparing for surgery means giving your body the tools it needs to heal efficiently, fight infection, and manage inflammation.
Certain nutrients play a key role in immune function, tissue repair, and reducing post-surgical swelling, making them valuable additions to your pre-surgery routine.
However, not all supplements are safe, and some can interfere with the surgical process.
If you’re looking for the best supplements to take before surgery, focus on those that enhance healing and recovery without increasing risks.
Below are some of the most well-researched, surgery-safe supplements to consider.
1. Vitamin C: Immune Support and Wound Healing
Vitamin C is necessary for collagen synthesis, which helps repair tissues after surgery.
This vitamin also plays a role in immune function and reducing oxidative stress, which can accelerate recovery.
- A study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that patients with adequate vitamin C levels had faster wound healing and lower rates of post-surgical infections (Evans et al., 2017).
- Another review found that vitamin C deficiency can lead to impaired wound healing, increased infection risk, and prolonged hospital stays (Carr & Maggini, 2017).
To maximize its benefits, consider supplementing with 500-1000 mg per day in the weeks before surgery.
However, high doses (>2000 mg) should be avoided as they may overstimulate the immune system and increase oxidative stress.
2. Zinc: Cell Repair and Tissue Healing
Zinc is a mineral involved in wound healing, immune defense, and inflammation reduction.
Since this mineral plays a role in cell proliferation and tissue regeneration, it is especially important for recovering from skin incisions and internal healing.
- Research from Wound Repair and Regeneration found that zinc supplementation improves wound closure rates and reduces infection risk (Lansdown et al., 2007).
- Another study noted that patients with zinc deficiencies had significantly delayed healing times after surgery (Heyneman, 1996).
For optimal results, supplement with 15-30 mg of zinc daily, but avoid excessive doses (over 50 mg per day). High zinc intake can interfere with copper absorption and potentially suppress immune function.
3. Bromelain: Reducing Post-Surgical Swelling and Bruising
Bromelain is an enzyme derived from pineapple. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-reducing properties.
Bromelain can be particularly beneficial for patients undergoing orthopedic, dental, or cosmetic surgeries, as it helps minimize swelling and bruising.
- A randomized controlled trial in Biomedical Reports found that bromelain supplementation reduced post-surgical pain, swelling, and recovery time compared to a placebo (Gandhi et al., 2020).
- Another study showed that bromelain reduces inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory cytokines, making it a natural alternative to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (Pavan et al., 2012).
To use bromelain effectively, take 500-1000 mg per day on an empty stomach before surgery.
However, patients on blood thinners and anticoagulant medications or with bleeding disorders should consult a doctor, as bromelain has mild anticoagulant properties.
4. Magnesium: Muscle Relaxation and Stress Management
Magnesium is often overlooked in pre-surgery preparation, but it plays an important role in muscle relaxation, stress management, and preventing postoperative complications like muscle cramps.
- A study in Anesthesia & Analgesia found that patients with adequate magnesium levels had lower rates of post-surgical muscle spasms and nerve pain (Do et al., 2013).
- Magnesium also helps regulate cortisol (the stress hormone), which can reduce anxiety before surgery (Boyle et al., 2017), and it can help lower blood pressure.
Before surgery, take 200-400 mg of magnesium glycinate or citrate daily to support relaxation and recovery or help with high blood pressure.
Avoid magnesium oxide, as it’s poorly absorbed and can cause digestive discomfort.
5. Protein & Collagen Peptides: Essential for Post-Surgery Tissue Repair
Protein is the foundation of muscle and tissue repair, making it critical before and after surgery.
Collagen peptides, a specific form of protein, support skin regeneration, wound healing, and scar formation.
- A study in Clinical Nutrition found that patients who consumed adequate protein before surgery experienced shorter hospital stays and fewer complications (Soeters et al., 2017).
- Research has shown that collagen peptides increase collagen deposition in wounds, helping reduce scar formation and improve overall healing (Postlethwaite et al., 1978).
Aim for at least 0.8-1.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily to support healing.
Adding 10-15 grams of collagen peptides can further boost wound healing and recovery.
In the next section, we’ll explore what supplements to avoid before surgery. Certain popular supplements can increase the risk, interfere with anesthesia, or cause unwanted immune responses.
Recommended Brands of the Best Supplements to Take Before Surgery
- Liposomal Hydrogel Vitamin C
- Absorbable Zinc
- Bromelain
- Magnesium Glycinate
- Whey Protein
- Collagen Peptides
Supplements Not to Take Before Surgery
While some supplements can help the body prepare for surgery, others increase risks by interfering with blood clotting, anesthesia medications, or immune function.
Many people assume that because supplements are natural, they are always safe—but in the context of surgery, some can cause serious complications.
Knowing which supplements to avoid in the weeks prior to surgery is just as important as knowing which ones to include in your routine.
Below are the most problematic supplements to avoid before surgery, along with the reasons why they can be dangerous.
1. Blood-Thinning Supplements: Increased Bleeding Risk
Some of the most commonly used supplements—such as fish oil, vitamin E, garlic, and ginkgo biloba—have natural anticoagulant properties.
These properties thin the blood, increasing the risk of bleeding and prolonging the bleeding time overall.
This can be especially dangerous during surgery, where excessive bleeding can make procedures longer, complicate wound healing, and increase recovery time.
- Fish oil (omega-3s) – While beneficial for heart health, omega-3 fatty acids inhibit platelet aggregation, making it harder for blood to clot. A study in Circulation found that high-dose fish oil can significantly extend bleeding time in surgical patients (Garcia et al., 2018).
- Vitamin E Supplements – This fat-soluble vitamin is an antioxidant but also inhibits platelet function, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding (Kritchevsky, 2004).
- Garlic & Ginkgo Biloba – Both are widely used for their cardiovascular benefits, but they have natural blood-thinning properties and should be discontinued at least 7-10 days before surgery (Rose et al., 2015).
If you regularly take any of these supplements, talk to your doctor about when to stop them before your procedure.
2. Sedatives & Nervous System Depressants: Interference with Anesthesia
Some herbal supplements can act as natural sedatives, which can interfere with anesthesia and pain management during surgery.
Certain compounds in these supplements affect how the body metabolizes anesthetic drugs, leading to prolonged sedation, unpredictable reactions, or complications during recovery.
- Valerian Root & Kava – These herbs enhance the effects of sedatives, making it harder to regulate anesthesia dosage. Studies show that patients who take valerian regularly may experience delayed awakening after surgery (Hadley & Petry, 2003).
- St. John’s Wort – This popular supplement for depression alters liver enzyme activity, which can cause unpredictable interactions with anesthesia and post-operative medications (Izzo & Ernst, 2009).
Doctors generally recommend stopping these at least two weeks before surgery to prevent any complications with anesthesia or pain management.
3. Immune-Stimulating Supplements: Overstimulation & Inflammation
It’s important to support the immune system before surgery, but too much immune activation can backfire.
Some supplements, like echinacea, high-dose zinc, and excessive vitamin C, can overstimulate immune function, leading to increased inflammation, allergic reactions, or even immune system suppression after surgery.
- Echinacea – While echinacea is commonly used to prevent colds, it may increase inflammation and impair liver detoxification, which could slow down the clearance of anesthetic drugs (Mills et al., 2005).
- High-Dose Zinc & Vitamin C – While moderate levels of these nutrients support healing, excessive doses (>2000 mg of vitamin C or >50 mg of zinc) may increase oxidative stress and inflammation, potentially interfering with the body’s natural recovery processes (Hemilä, 2017).
It’s best to avoid high-dose immune-boosting supplements at least a week before your surgery and focus on maintaining balanced nutrition instead.
4. Hormonal Supplements: Impact on Healing & Recovery
Hormone-related supplements, including DHEA, testosterone boosters, and high-dose vitamin D, can interfere with post-surgical recovery by affecting inflammation, fluid balance, and blood clotting.
- DHEA & Testosterone Boosters – These supplements can elevate estrogen and androgen levels, potentially increasing the risk of blood clots and excessive inflammation after surgery (Levine et al., 2016).
- High-Dose Vitamin D – While vitamin D supports bone health, taking mega-doses (>10,000 IU daily) can cause calcium imbalances, increasing the risk of post-surgical complications (Zittermann et al., 2009).
If you take any hormone-related supplements, consult with your doctor about the appropriate time to discontinue them before surgery.
Certain supplements may seem harmless but can significantly impact bleeding, anesthesia, immune function, and overall recovery.
If you regularly take fish oil, vitamin E, valerian, St. John’s Wort, echinacea, or hormone-related supplements, it’s crucial to stop them in advance, according to your doctor’s recommendations.
General Guidelines for Taking Supplements Before Surgery
While supplements can play a role in supporting immune function, reducing inflammation, and aiding tissue repair, they must be used strategically.
Some supplements should be continued to enhance healing, while others must be stopped to prevent complications.
Following the right guidelines ensures that you enter surgery in the best possible condition while minimizing risks.
1. Always Check with Your Doctor or Surgeon
Surgeons and anesthesiologists need to know exactly what you’re taking, as certain supplements can interfere with clotting, anesthesia, and recovery.
Some may need to be stopped entirely, while others can be safely adjusted or continued.
They’ll also go over your prescription drugs carefully before surgery, whether you’re undergoing orthopedic surgery, plastic surgery, or any other type of surgical procedure.
2. Stop High-Risk Supplements 1-2 Weeks Before Surgery
Many blood-thinning, sedative, or immune-stimulating supplements should be discontinued at least one to two weeks before surgery to avoid complications.
This includes:
- Blood thinners (fish oil, vitamin E, garlic, ginkgo biloba)
- Sedatives (valerian root, St. John’s Wort, kava)
- Immune stimulants (echinacea, high-dose zinc, excessive vitamin C)
- Hormonal supplements (DHEA, testosterone boosters, high-dose vitamin D)
Stopping these supplements in advance helps reduce the risk of excessive bleeding, drug interactions, and immune overstimulation for a safer surgical procedure and recovery.
3. Focus on Whole-Food Sources of Essential Nutrients
Instead of relying solely on supplements, incorporating nutrient-dense foods can provide pre-surgery nutrition in a way that is easier on the body and better absorbed.
Some of the best options include:
- Bone broth or collagen-rich foods support skin and tissue repair as they have protein and amino acids.
- Leafy greens and citrus fruits are good for vitamin C and strengthen the immune system.
- Protein sources like eggs, chicken, and fish promote muscle and tissue healing.
- Magnesium-rich foods like nuts, seeds, and dark chocolate support relaxation, blood pressure regulation and nerve function.
If you need to pause certain supplements before surgery, these foods can help maintain essential nutrient levels without the risks associated with high-dose supplementation.
4. Reintroduce Supplements After Surgery Based on Recovery Needs
Once the procedure is over, it’s important to gradually reintroduce beneficial supplements to aid recovery.
However, timing matters. Some supplements should be reintroduced immediately, while others may need to wait until bleeding risks subside and digestion normalizes.
- Supplements like vitamin C, zinc, collagen, and protein can be started soon after surgery to support healing.
- Bromelain and arnica may help reduce swelling and bruising but should only be taken once the risk of excessive bleeding has passed.
- Probiotics can be helpful after surgery, especially if antibiotics were used, to restore gut health and immune function.
Final Thoughts
Pre-surgery preparation involves more than scheduling a procedure—it requires optimizing your body’s ability to heal and recover.
Supplements can be a valuable part of this process, but it’s crucial to choose the right ones and avoid the wrong ones.
- Some supplements support healing, while others increase surgical risks by affecting blood clotting, anesthesia, or immune function.
- Work with your doctor to develop a supplement plan that fits your specific surgery and health needs.
- Timing and dosage matter, so it’s important to start or stop supplements at the right time to ensure a safe and effective recovery.
Now that you have a better understanding of supplements to take before surgery, talk with your healthcare provider and adjust your supplement routine to ensure the best possible outcome.
References
- Heyneman, C. A. “Zinc Deficiency and Its Functional Implications.” Pharmacotherapy: The Journal of Human Pharmacology and Drug Therapy, vol. 16, no. 1, 1996, pp. 2-6. Link.
- Izzo, A. A., & Ernst, E “Interactions Between Herbal Medicines and Prescribed Drugs: A Systematic Review.” Drugs, vol. 69, no. 13, 2009, pp. 1777-1798. Link.
- Lansdown, A. B., Sampson, B., & Rowe, A. “Experimental Observations in Zinc Deficiency and Wound Healing.” Wound Repair and Regeneration, vol. 15, no. 5, 2007, pp. 666-672. Link.
- Mills, E., Wu, P., Dube, S., & Wilson, K. “Echinacea, Osmotic Fragility, and Health: A Systematic Review.” Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, vol. 30, no. 5, 2005, pp. 521-527. Link.
- Morrison, B. W., Zheng, S., Greenhawt, M., et al.. “Perioperative Nutrition Considerations and the Role of Nutritional Supplements.” Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, vol. 25, 2018, pp. 1-10. Link.
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