Preparing for surgery can bring a lot of uncertainty. Many people wonder if there is anything they can do ahead of time to improve their chances of a smooth procedure and recovery. While we can’t control everything, one thing we can control is how we take care of our bodies leading up to it. For me, years of following a whole food plant-based lifestyle have helped transform my health in ways I never imagined. As I recently completed my pre-operative physical, lab work, and EKG, the results served as a powerful reminder that the daily choices we make truly matter.
As I prepare for my upcoming surgery on March 17, I recently completed my physical, lab work, and pre-operative EKG. I’m happy to report that the doctor said I am in optimal health and considered minimal risk for surgery. He even said that’s exactly what surgeons want to hear before heading into the operating room!
Moments like this make me especially grateful for the lifestyle choices I’ve made over the years. I follow a whole-food, plant-based diet, not only because I’m an ethical vegan, but because I genuinely care about my long-term health.
Years ago, my health looked very different. I struggled with high blood pressure and prediabetes, and my cholesterol levels were higher than they should have been. Today, those issues are far behind me.
My most recent lab results are a great reminder of how powerful lifestyle changes can be:
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A1C: 5.0 (previously 4.8 — essentially unchanged and still excellent)
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Total Cholesterol: 119
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LDL: 66
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Triglycerides: 58
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HDL: 40
There was a time when my total cholesterol was in the low 200s, and I never imagined I would see numbers like this. But these results didn’t happen by accident. They came from years of consistently eating clean, whole foods and prioritizing my health every day.
Seeing these numbers now is incredibly rewarding. It’s proof that the body can respond in amazing ways when we give it the right fuel.
As I head into surgery, I feel confident knowing I’ve done everything I can to put my body in the best possible position for a successful procedure and recovery.
If you’re facing surgery or simply striving for better health, remember this: small daily choices truly add up over time. Your future self will thank you for the effort.
As I move closer to surgery day, I’m reminded that health isn’t built overnight. It’s the result of daily habits, small decisions, and consistency over time. Choosing whole, nourishing foods, staying active, and prioritizing wellness has helped me transform my health in ways I once thought were impossible. If you’re preparing for surgery or simply striving for better health, know that it’s never too late to make changes that support your body. Every healthy choice you make today is an investment in the strength, healing, and vitality you’ll need tomorrow.