Surgery Support Protocol

Remedy Wellness  |  remedycharleston.com

Surgery is a physical stress — tissue gets cut, the immune system activates, and your body has to rebuild from scratch. That takes nutrients. The supplements and foods in this protocol support faster wound healing, reduced bruising and swelling, and lower infection risk. Always confirm with your surgical team which supplements are approved before your procedure. Many surgeons advise stopping all supplements in the weeks prior. If that's your instruction, follow it — then use this protocol to hit the ground running after surgery.

Preparation Phase Begin up to 2 weeks before, if cleared by your surgeon. Continue for 4 weeks after.
  • High-potency multivitamin/mineral such as Primal or Metabolic Synergy. Foundational micronutrient support for tissue repair.
  • Vitamin C (liposomal), 1 tsp. twice daily. Promotes connective tissue and wound healing; liposomal form absorbs significantly better than standard capsules.
  • Vitamin E (high gamma-mixed tocopherol), 1 cap daily. Promotes wound healing and reduces scar formation. Use a natural form such as Annatto-E by DFH.
  • Zinc Supreme by DFH, 1 cap daily. Stimulates DNA synthesis required for new cell growth.
  • Methylated B complex (B-Supreme by DFH or Basic B by Thorne), 1 cap daily with food. Stimulates DNA synthesis required for new cell growth.
Stop at Least 1 Week Before Surgery
  • Discontinue all non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers (aspirin, Motrin, Advil, ibuprofen). These increase bleeding risk during and after surgery.
The Day Before Surgery
  • No cigarette smoking — none. Nicotine dramatically reduces tissue oxygenation and healing capacity across multiple systems. Many surgical centers test for this pre-operatively. The post-operative implications are serious enough that some units will reschedule your procedure.
Morning of Surgery
  • Arnica Montana 200c, first dose. 5 pellets dissolved under the tongue just before going in. Reduces the physical effects of surgical trauma: bruising, swelling, and pain.
After Surgery
  • Arnica Montana 200c, second dose. 5 pellets under the tongue the morning after surgery. Continues to reduce bruising, swelling, and pain from surgical trauma.
  • Bromelain (2400 DGU/gram), 250 mg, 2 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach for 10 days. Reduces post-surgical swelling and inflammation, shortens healing time, reduces scar tissue formation.
  • Arthroben Medical Food, 1.5 Tbsp in water daily. Anti-inflammatory; supports connective tissue healing.
  • Resume your full supplement protocol (multivitamin, Vitamins C and E, Zinc, Methylated B's) the morning after surgery.
What to Eat During Recovery
For Healing & Repair
Bone broth — collagen, glycine, and minerals that directly support wound healing and gut recovery; 1–2 cups daily
Wild-caught salmon or sardines — omega-3s reduce inflammation and support cell membrane integrity
Pasture-raised eggs — complete amino acid profile for tissue rebuilding
Organic chicken or turkey — lean protein essential for new cell generation
Sweet potatoes — vitamin A supports tissue repair and immune function
Lentils and beans — plant protein plus iron and zinc for repair
To Reduce Swelling
Pineapple — natural source of bromelain; eat between meals on an empty stomach to get the anti-inflammatory effect
Tart cherries — reduce post-surgical pain and swelling; fresh, frozen, or unsweetened juice
Ginger — lowers inflammatory cytokines and relieves nausea from anesthesia
Turmeric with black pepper — curcumin is a strong anti-inflammatory; black pepper is not optional, it activates it
Blueberries and raspberries — antioxidants reduce oxidative stress from tissue damage
Avocado — vitamin E and healthy fats support skin and tissue healing
For Gut Health
Kefir or plain whole-milk yogurt — if on antibiotics post-surgery, fermented foods help restore gut flora
Sauerkraut or kimchi (unpasteurized) — live cultures; choose refrigerated, not shelf-stable
Leafy greens — spinach, kale, arugula provide vitamin K, folate, and iron for healing
Garlic — antimicrobial and immune-supportive; useful while recovering
Ginger or peppermint tea — eases nausea and digestive discomfort from anesthesia and post-op medications
Water and herbal broth — dehydration slows every stage of healing; prioritize fluid intake from the first day