Protocol · Recovery & Healing
Surgical Recovery Protocol
Protein (Whey/Collagen) and Vitamin C are the core of this stack, with 6 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Surgical Recovery.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
8 supplements · 2 graded
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | ||||
| Protein (Whey/Collagen) | Amount listed: 1.5–2 g/kg body weight daily, divided across meals | Provides essential amino acids for tissue repair, wound healing, and preservation of lean mass during recovery
| Grade D for Length of hospitalization1 study · 657 people | |
| Vitamin C | Amount listed: 500–2,000 mg daily | Essential cofactor for collagen synthesis; critical for wound healing and immune function post-surgery | Not graded yet | |
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | ||||
| Zinc | Amount listed: 15–30 mg daily (for 2–4 weeks post-surgery) | Essential for immune function, protein synthesis, and cell division; accelerates wound healing | Not graded yet | |
| Bromelain | Amount listed: 500–2,000 GDU 2–3× daily between meals | Proteolytic enzyme that reduces post-surgical swelling, bruising, and inflammation | Not graded yet | |
| Arnica Montana | Amount listed: 3–5 pellets (30C) 3× daily or topical application | Reduces post-surgical bruising, swelling, and pain through anti-inflammatory mechanisms | Not graded yet | |
| Curcumin | Amount listed: 500–1,000 mg daily (enhanced absorption formula) | Potent anti-inflammatory that reduces post-operative inflammation and supports tissue healing
| Grade C for Fatigue Symptoms50 people | |
| Probiotics | Amount listed: Multi-strain probiotic (20–50 billion CFU) daily | Supports gut health post-antibiotics, reduces infection risk, and supports immune recovery | Not graded yet | |
| Vitamin A | Amount listed: 10,000–25,000 IU daily (short-term, 2 weeks post-surgery) | Supports epithelial repair, immune function, and collagen synthesis for wound healing | Not graded yet | |
How this protocol works
In plain language
Surgical recovery requires your body to repair tissue, fight infection, and restore normal function. Proper nutrition and targeted supplements can significantly speed healing and reduce complications. IMPORTANT: Always inform your surgical team about all supplements, as some must be stopped before surgery due to bleeding risks.
- Protein is the single most important nutrient for surgical recovery. Your body needs amino acids to build new tissue and heal wounds. Surgery increases protein requirements by 50-100%. Inadequate protein leads to poor wound healing, muscle loss, and longer recovery. Aim for 1.5-2g per kg of body weight daily, spread across meals. Collagen peptides may specifically support connective tissue repair.
- Vitamin C is essential for making collagen—the structural protein that holds tissues together. Without adequate vitamin C, wounds simply don't heal properly. Surgical stress depletes vitamin C, and studies show supplementation improves wound healing outcomes. It also supports immune function, reducing infection risk.
- Zinc is critical for cell division, protein synthesis, and immune function—all essential for healing. Surgery depletes zinc, and deficiency delays wound healing. Short-term supplementation (2-4 weeks post-surgery) supports the healing process. Don't take long-term at high doses.
- Bromelain is a pineapple enzyme that reduces post-surgical swelling, bruising, and inflammation. Multiple studies show it speeds recovery from dental, facial, and orthopedic surgery. It works by breaking down proteins involved in inflammation. Take between meals for systemic absorption.
- Arnica Montana is a traditional remedy for bruising and trauma that has growing research support. Studies in plastic surgery patients show it reduces bruising and swelling when taken around the time of surgery. Available as oral pellets or topical cream.
- Curcumin is a powerful anti-inflammatory that can reduce the excessive inflammation that occurs after surgery. It may help with pain management and support tissue healing. Use enhanced-absorption formulas for best results.
- Probiotics are important because surgery often involves antibiotics, which disrupt gut bacteria. Restoring healthy gut flora supports immune function and reduces risk of post-operative infections. Start before surgery if possible and continue for several weeks after.
- Vitamin A supports epithelial (skin and membrane) repair and immune function. Short-term high-dose supplementation around surgery supports wound healing, especially important for patients on corticosteroids (which impair healing).
Expected timeline: Start protein and probiotics before surgery if planned. Begin other supplements after surgery unless your surgeon advises otherwise. Most supplements support recovery over the 2-6 week acute healing period.
STOP BEFORE SURGERY: Fish oil, vitamin E, ginkgo, garlic, and ginger (bleeding risk)—typically 7-14 days pre-op. Follow your surgeon's instructions.