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.