NUTRITIONAL NEEDS SPECIFIC TO SURGICAL PATIENTS The surgical stress response results in whole-body catabolism (breakdown of complex molecules to smaller ones). This is seen principally as the wasting of muscle, releasing amino acids to allow the synthesis of proteins known as acute phase reactants and production of glucose needed as an energy source. [10] In addition, perioperative fasting can worsen the surgical stress response, weaken gut function, and amplify protein losses. Thus, patients who are malnourished or undernourished or muscle-depleted are particularly vulnerable and need nutritional supplementation. In brief, nutritional supplements targeting preservation of muscle function, energy production, wound healing, pain, and immune function are key to maximize recovery after surgery.
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