Nutrition Advice: Plant-based Anti-Inflammatory High Protein Cardiac Diet for Patients
Authors: Amina Khalpey, PhD, Zeke Mendoza, BS, Brynne Rozell BS, Zain Khalpey, MD, PhD
An anti-inflammatory diet is beneficial for surgery patients because it has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which can help to reduce post-surgical pain and swelling. Additionally, an anti-inflammatory diet can help to improve the patient’s overall health and immune system, which can help the healing process and reduce the risk of infection. As a researcher and cardiothoracic surgeon, Dr. Khalpey has created an example of an anti-inflammatory diet for patients to follow.
Day 1
Breakfast: Smoothie bowl made with almond milk, banana, spinach, chia seeds and plant-based protein powder
Lunch:
Grilled tofu, brown rice, and roasted vegetables
Dinner:
Lentil soup and a mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette dressing
Day 2
Breakfast:
Peanut butter and banana on whole grain toast
Lunch:
Chickpea and vegetable stir-fry over quinoa
Dinner:
Grilled portobello mushrooms stuffed with brown rice and vegetables
Day 3
Breakfast:
Oatmeal with almond milk, berries, and almonds
Lunch:
Roasted vegetable and hummus wrap
Dinner:
Baked sweet potato with black beans, salsa and guacamole
Day 4
Breakfast:
Whole grain pancakes with mixed berry compote and almond butter
Lunch:
Grilled tempeh and mixed vegetables over brown rice
Dinner:
Vegetable and tofu kebabs with quinoa
Day 5
Breakfast:
Avocado and tomato on whole grain toast with a scrambled egg plant-based alternative
Lunch:
Broccoli and cheddar soup with a whole grain roll
Dinner:
Zucchini noodles with marinara sauce and a side salad
Day 6
Breakfast:
Greek yogurt with mixed berries and almonds
Lunch:
Grilled eggplant and bell pepper sandwich on whole grain bread
Dinner:
Chickpea curry with brown rice and naan bread
Day 7
Breakfast:
Whole grain waffles with mixed berry compote and almond butter
Lunch:
Grilled seitan and mixed vegetables over quinoa
Dinner:
Spaghetti squash with marinara sauce and a side salad
Repeat for the second week, including a variety of fruits, vegetables and plant-based protein sources to ensure adequate nutrient intake.
The Benefits of an Anti-Inflammatory Diet For Surgery Patients
A good diet before surgery is important for several reasons. First, a balanced diet will help ensure that your body is healthy and strong, which is essential for an optimal recovery from surgery. Eating a nutritious diet can also help reduce inflammation and prevent infection, both of which can significantly impact healing time. Lastly, a balanced diet can help prevent complications during surgery, such as low blood sugar, which can cause dangerous side effects.
Note: This meal plan should not be used as a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional before making any dietary changes, especially for those with heart conditions.