surgery and the immune system

August 9, 2003

I found this article interesting in view of the fact that so many of us have this "honeymoon" after explant. Could it be that we experience this honeymoon because of the suppressed immune system? In other words, our immune system, being in an autoimmune mode, stops attacking our own tissues while suppressed, but as it recovers our symptoms return? Immune suppressive drugs, like prednisone, accomplish this too, but are soooooo toxic!

Dr. ph MercolaAuthor ofThe No-Grain Diet

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Immune-Boosting Nutrients Beneficial After Surgery

Nutrients used to boost the immune system, known as immunonutrients, may benefit surgical patients. The immune system becomes suppressed after a person undergoes surgery, thereby increasing the risk of deadly infections. Supplementing the immune system with specific nutrients during this time may reduce the risk of complications from infection and decrease the length of hospital stays.

Most commonly, immunonutrients include arginine, glutamine, branched chain amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids and nucleotides. Future studies are needed to determine what combinations of nutrients are most effective for different patient groups.

British Medical Journal July 19, 2003;327:117-118 (Full Text Article)

Dr. Mercola's Comment: Occasionally surgery is needed, and when it is it certainly seems more than reasonable to use nutrition to support your recovery.

This is great confirmation of an earlier article I posted on this topic.

One of the immunonutrients mentioned in the article, omega-3 fatty acids, can benefit you even if you are not having surgery. Most Americans are deficient in omega-3, which is unfortunate because it plays a role in preventing heart disease, cancer, depression, premature birth and Alzheimer's disease, and is useful in treating rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, ulcerative colitis, Raynaud's disease and a host of other diseases.

Routine consumption of fish oil is an excellent way to increase your intake of omega-3, but it’s important to find an oil that is free of mercury and other toxins. The Carlson brand of fish oil and cod liver oil, regularly tested by an independent FDA registered laboratory, is the most highly recommended for its potency and purity. You can find this exceptional-quality fish oil in the “Recommended Products” section, and you may be able to find it in your local health food store.

Fish is also an excellent source of omega-3, but unfortunately most fish is seriously contaminated with mercury, so I can’t recommend eating it. However, the Vital Choice Alaskan wild red salmon offered on this site is the one source of salmon or any fish that, via independent lab testing, I have discovered is safe from mercury and other toxins. In addition to being mercury-free, the Vital Choice Alaskan salmon is loaded with omega-3, is high in antioxidants to help you live longer, and tastes absolutely delicious.

As a final note, if you are taking herbal supplements please be aware that some are very powerful and can function like drugs. Herbal supplements should be stopped several weeks prior to surgery.

Related Articles:

Supplements To Enhance Surgical Recovery

If You Are Taking Herbs Be Careful If Planning Surgery

Liposuction Compromises Immune System

Strong Immune System Beats Ebola Virus

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©Copyright 2003 Dr. ph Mercola. . This content may be copied in full, with copyright, contact, creation and information intact, without specific permission, when used only in a not-for-profit format. If any other use is desired, permission in writing from Dr. Mercola is required. Disclaimer - The entire contents of this website are based upon the opinions of Dr. Mercola. They are not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional and they are not intended as medical advice. They are intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Dr. Mercola and his community. Dr. Mercola encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with a qualified health care professional.

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