Omega-3 fatty acids are essential in the diet; your body cannot make them and therefore you must get them from outside sources. Salmon, halibut, flax, sardines and walnuts are all good sources. You may also take oral supplements in the form of fish oil, ground flaxseed, flaxseed oil and krill oil. Omega-3 is known to have many health benefits when taken in adequate amounts, and may even be helpful to you before and after surgery. Check with your doctor before taking omega-3 supplements.
Benefits of Omega-3
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, clinical studies show a number of uses for omega-3. Benefits include reducing triglycerides and cholesterol, reducing blood pressure and decreasing inflammation. Decreased inflammation can positively affect medical problems such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes and rheumatoid arthritis. Additionally, omega-3 appears to reduce the risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer and possibly breast cancer.
Preoperative Supplementation
The US. National Library of Medicine's MedLine Plus service states that supplementation of omega-3 for one month prior to and one month after heart bypass surgery reduces the risk for postoperative blockage of blood vessels by 26 percent. Further research is needed to assess the effects of omega-3 supplementation prior to other types of surgery.
Postoperative Supplementation
According to the "World Journal of Gastroenterology," postoperative supplementation of omega-3 fatty acids may benefit patients with colorectal cancer because it slows inflammation and helps support the immune system. Additionally, MedLine Plus notes that fish oil supplementation after heart bypass surgery helps to keep blood vessels and bypass grafts open. Although more studies must be done to examine the relationship of omega-3 supplementation and recovery after different surgeries, the anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3 are well established.
Considerations
Omega-3 supplements, along with many other herbal supplements, help to thin the blood. Your doctor may recommend avoiding them in the days just prior to surgery to decrease bleeding risk. When planning a procedure, tell your doctor about any supplements you are taking. Follow his instructions on when to stop taking these and other medications prior to surgery. A diet high in omega-3-rich foods is generally safe for surgery patients, but always verify specific dietary requirements with your doctor.
References
- Tufts University School of Medicine: Omega 3 Fatty Acids
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- "World Journal of Gastroenterology"; Impact of Postoperative Omega-3 Fatty Acid-Supplemented Parenteral Nutrition on Clinical Outcomes and Immunomodulations in Colorectal Cancer Patients; Bin Liang, et. al; April 2008
- MedLine Plus: Fish Oil
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