Managing Your Knee Transplant Journey Through Diet
Have you been a patient with chronic knee pain? Are you someone who has had a knee transplant, or is about to have one? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand how a knee transplant can be an intimidating process that leaves you flustered. However, while your doctor for knee transplant does his duty, you need to play your part in getting ready or recovering from this operation.
Understanding Knee Transplant
Knee replacement is a procedure where the weight-bearing surface of the knee joint is replaced to relieve pain. There is no doubt that the body is put under a tremendous amount of stress. Since your topmost priority is to heal as quickly as possible, it is smart to keep a check on your diet and nutrition. With the help of a proper and planned nutritional diet, before and after the knee replacement procedure, one can ensure a positive outcome.
If you are wondering what the right foods do;the answer is quite simple! Incorporating the right foods in your diet plan will allow your body to have the strength to sustain the surgery and it will speed up your post-surgery recovery process.On the other hand, lack of nutrition will slow down the pace of your healing process and at the same time, it might increase susceptibility to infections which might prove fatal in the long run. This article will help you figure out the right foods to be consumed before and after your knee replacement.
Prepping up for your Knee Transplant the Right Way
One of the most neglected phases of any recovery journey is the pre-operation/transplant stage. By the time the patient becomes aware of the severity of the issue and reaches the conclusion to get the knee transplant done, a whole lot of time is lost. However, if you become responsible enough in time, you can work on readying your body for the procedure of a knee transplant by eating right.
- Protein provides us with antibodies when it comes to recovery and healing. Therefore, increasing your protein intake before surgery can strengthen your body for the stress it shall undergo during and post-surgery. If you are a non-vegetarian, items such as beef steak, ground beef, pork chops, chicken breast, and eggs in moderation can be taken. If you are a vegetarian, consuming tofu and soy, beans,milk, cottage cheese, and yogurt (especially greek) will help. Seeds and nuts like almonds, walnuts, peanut butter, etc are also good sources. The above-stated food varieties are not only rich in proteins but also aid in supplementing Vitamin D and Calcium.
- Bone broths are miracle workers when it comes to healing. They help build collagen and boost antibody development. Hence, if you’re a non-vegetarian, it’s preferred that instead of munching on meat, drinking broth will hydrate you and enrich your body at the same time.
- Vitamin C and Iron are equally essential for the body. Like his buddy Protein, Vitamin C helps rebuild collagen which is a key part of bones, tendons, muscles, etc. Citrus fruits, red fruits, and vegetables like tomatoes, strawberries, etc go a long way in rejuvenating blood cells and repairing any damages incurred.
Diet Suggestions Post Knee Replacement
Knee Replacement is an intrusive procedure that takes up roughly 3-6months to fully recover and heal. In this case, it becomes crucial to stay watchful of what you consume and how. Any food items that can cause inflammation should be avoided at any cost. While you can consume the food items told previously, let’s take a look at some things you can avoid posting your knee transplant.
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco intake post-surgery. Your Knee Transplant doctor will ask you not to consume these at least 24-48 hours before the surgery. However, after the transplant, your body requires a lot of fluids to heal. Alcohol on the other hand causes dehydration. Alcohol and Tobacco if taken alongside your pain pills can cause dizziness, impair your senses, affect thinking and slow your breathing to dangerously low levels.
- It is critical maintaining Vitamin K intake post-surgery. Vitamin K is said to enhance blood clotting. However, after your knee replacement, you might be kept on blood thinners based on your condition. It’s best to have things like broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, lentils, soybeans, kale, cabbage, onions, etc in strict moderation.
- Get your anti-inflammatory diet designed as soon as possible with the help of your knee transplant doctor and dietician. Your diet will be heavily influenced by what comorbidities you have. Remember, opting for the correct diet helps speed up recovery after your knee transplant. Instead of prolonging your recovery, which leaves you susceptible to further complications/problems, it’s best to consult a professional. If you’re someone on the lookout for knee transplant solutions in Delhi, get in touch with us, and let’s work towards your healing and recovery!