Nourish Rx Surgery

Studies find that a typical diet is too often not enough for surgery. The physiological stress of an operation increases the demand for acute phase protein synthesis, lymphocyte proliferation, and tissue repair (Wischmeyer, 2018). Each Nourish Rx serving holds the recommended minimum daily protein intake of 20g. Protein supplementation reduces the risk of surgical infection. Arginine and other amino acids provide potent immunonutrition support.  Cytokines are proteins and peptides secreted by white cells to regulate and coordinate the immune response. Interleukins are specific glycoproteins that play an immunomodulatory role in T-cell activity. In testing, lymphocytopenia with a count below 1500 is a direct marker of protein malnutrition. Several large studies correlate low protein health with an increase in postoperative infection.

Additional branch chain amino acids (BCAA) are especially important in skeletal muscle metabolism.  HMB (beta-hydroxy beta-methylbutarate)  up-regulates protein synthesis pathways to increase muscle gain and functional strength in healthy older adults. (Wu) More importantly, a large randomized study of 652 elderly hospitalized patients demonstrated that a high protein supplement with HMB reduced mortality by almost 50% relative to placebo. (deutz, nourish study group 2016)

For the surgical patient, it is well established that insufficient nutritional preparation is a significant risk factor.  During this period of acute physiologic stress and anabolic demand, patients require increased macronutrient and micronutrient support.  Hypoalbuminemia is a modifiable risk factor that is associated with a statistically significant greater risk of delayed healing, readmission, and complications.  Strong bones are needed to improve recovery.  Older adults are especially at risk for osteopenia and osteoporosis.  Supplementation with Calcium and Vitamin D can enhance bone metabolism. Protein provides structural bone support and accounts for one third of bone mass and volume. Low levels of these can increase the risk of fragility and pathologic fractures.

Surgery and antibiotics are known to disrupt microbiome health. The normal gut flora regulates digestive health and bowel movements.  Nourish Rx contains Lactospore probiotics to repopulate healthy gut flora after antibiotic prophylaxis. The gut flora defends against pathogens by fully colonizing the space, making use of all available nutrients, and by secreting compounds that kill or inhibit unwelcome organisms that would compete for nutrients with it. (Yoon, 2014) Disruption of the gut flora allows competing organisms like Clostridium difficile to become established that otherwise are kept in abeyance.

There are 30 servings of powder in each container. One container will last approximately 30 days.

Mix it with the liquid of your choice, add one scoop into your morning smoothie, or simply mix with water.

Take one serving of Nourish Rx Surgery every morning and afternoon in the weeks leading up to your surgical procedure. This prepares your nutritional status going into surgery.

Taken postoperatively, these essential macronutrients and micronutrients are critical drivers for tissue and wound healing. Add one scoop into your morning smoothie, or simply mix with water.

Sometimes the scoop can get buried deep in the container and can be difficult to find. If this does happen, you can use a 1/4 cup measuring spoon and that will provide the same amount of product as the scoop.