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Category: For Med Pros

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For Med Pros Medical Professionals

ERAS® Implementation in Orthopedic Surgery

ERAS® protocols have gained traction in the realm of orthopedic surgery, particularly showcasing benefits in elective hip and knee arthroplasty. The integration of ERAS® protocols across the preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative phases of care has demonstrated a reduction in the length of hospital stay, readmission rates, and an enhancement in functional recovery. Notably, the implementation of ERAS® programs has the potential to ameliorate patient outcomes, curtail costs, and mitigate readmission rates following surgical procedures.

Why Should My Hospital Implement ERAS® Protocols?

The duration of hospital stay serves as a pivotal indicator of the financial strain on the healthcare system. Postoperative care expenses, encompassing physical and occupational therapy as well as nutritional support, significantly contribute to the overall costs. By embracing ERAS® protocols, healthcare facilities can foster improvements in both hospital and patient outcomes within the domain of orthopedic surgery.

What is the Benefit of Preoperative Carbohydrate Loading?

Preoperative administration of a carbohydrate load up to 2 hours before surgery has been identified as a strategy to induce a fed state in patients, thereby reducing postoperative protein loss and preserving muscle mass. Furthermore, postoperative insulin resistance (PIR) can precipitate hyperglycemia, elevating the susceptibility to surgical site infections. Orthopedic patients, given their heightened vulnerability due to compromised blood supply to injured or surgically manipulated bones and joints, are at an escalated risk of such infections.

What is the Problem With Fasting Before Surgery?

The conventional practice of fasting from midnight, lacking substantial evidence-based support, engenders a catabolic state that disrupts the normal interplay between insulin and glucose. This metabolic imbalance prompts the body to deplete its crucial glycogen reserves and subsequently resort to breaking down fat and muscle for energy. Consequently, patients develop insulin resistance, impeding the responsiveness of target cells to insulin.

How Does CF(Preop)® Help My Patients?

In contrast, the utilization of CF(Preop)®, a preoperative drink, has been shown to safeguard critical glycogen stores in orthopedic patients. Administering CF(Preop)® in the immediate preoperative window has the potential to stabilize blood sugar levels, ultimately diminishing the risk of hyperglycemia and its associated complications.

Does Research Support Preoperative Carbohydrate Loading?

Research findings have consistently underscored the advantages of ERAS® implementation in orthopedic surgery. Notably, the ERAS® group has exhibited a propensity for reducing the incidence of postoperative complications, 30-day mortality rates, and the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) following orthopedic procedures. Moreover, studies have reported a substantial reduction in the length of hospital stay after total arthroplasty, with no significant upsurge in readmission rates for any reason.

In a retrospective analysis encompassing 6000 patients undergoing total knee arthroplasty (TKA) or total hip arthroplasty (THA), ERAS® was found to significantly diminish the occurrence of postoperative complications, including myocardial infarction, readmission rates, and 30-day mortality rates compared to traditional protocols. Similarly, a large-sample trial involving 5002 orthopedic surgery patients revealed that ERAS implementation correlated with reductions in hospital length of stay and postoperative complication rates.Furthermore, the administration of a preoperative oral carbohydrate solution, administered up to 2 hours before anesthesia induction, has been associated with a marked enhancement in the well-being and comfort of postoperative patients, as evidenced by research conducted by Chada et al.

In conclusion, preoperative carbohydrate loading is an evidence based practice that helps improve surgical outcomes. Reach out today to request samples for your practice!

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For Med Pros Healthy Lifestyle Nutrition

CF(Sustain)® Protein Provides Nutrition Support During Weight Loss

CF(Sustain)® Protein, an innovative protein formulation, is meticulously crafted to safeguard muscle integrity amidst weight reduction endeavors. Each component within this premium blend is thoughtfully selected to foster ideal body composition throughout the weight loss journey.

The consumption of CF(Sustain)® Protein offers multifaceted benefits:

  1. Preservation of muscle mass during weight loss
  2. Convenient protein supplementation for daily consumption
  3. An excellent low-calorie, high-protein alternative for individuals utilizing GLP-1 weight loss medications
  4. Inclusion of essential vitamins and minerals to fortify bone health

This protein supplement excels in quality, particularly in its ability to sustain muscle mass during weight loss. By incorporating 20 grams of protein, CF(Sustain)® Protein facilitates fat loss while preserving muscle integrity.

Furthermore, the formulation supports bone health by providing 30% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for Vitamin D and 45% of the RDA for Calcium. These vital nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining optimal bone strength.

Noteworthy components within CF(Sustain)® Protein include 3 grams of HMB and 5 grams of Creatine, in addition to the high-quality protein content. This unique blend synergistically contributes to maintaining an optimal body composition during weight loss endeavors.

CF(Sustain)® Protein distinguishes itself with:

  • Organic flavors for a natural taste experience
  • Absence of artificial ingredients for purity
  • Soy and gluten-free composition for dietary inclusivity
  • Zero added sugars for a wholesome supplement choice

CF(Sustain)® Protein is available in 4 delicious flavors- Creamy Vanilla, Milk Chocolate, Orange Creamsicle, and Strawberry and Cream. Each bag comes with 20, single serving protein sticks to make it a convenient, on the go option!

CF(Sustain)® Protein is the perfect supplement to your diet when trying to lose weight. Visit our website to learn more! This product will be available SOON! Be on the lookout for our official launch.

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For Med Pros Preparing for Surgery

4 Ways to Reduce Stress and Anxiety Before Surgery

Surgery, though necessary, can cause stress and anxiety in several people. We understand how scary going into a medical procedure can be and we are here to help. There are several tools and tips available to take control of your mental state leading into surgery. Since surgery already causes stress to your body, it is crucial to learn what you can do to reduce your stress and anxiety so you can go into surgery in the best possible shape to ensure a quick recovery. Today, we break down ways to manage your stress and anxiety in the days and weeks leading up to your surgery. 

Tip #1 Drink CF(Preop)® Before Surgery

One cause of stress and anxiety prior to surgery is being required to fast from midnight to surgery. On top of the stress of getting surgery, the additional burden of having to abstain from eating or drinking may worsen anxiety in several patients. Luckily, this old surgical doctrine that requires patients to fast from midnight to their surgery time is outdated. In the 1990s, evidence-based research suggested that it was not necessary to be NPO after midnight before surgery. Furthermore, there are detrimental effects caused by this period of prolonged fasting, including anxiety and stress. A systematic review that included 17 randomized control trials with a total of 1,445 patients showed that preoperative carb loading significantly improved patients comfort and reduced anxiety before surgery.

One way to reduce anxiety before surgery is to drink CF(Preop)®. Patients should drink the first bottle the night before their surgery and a second bottle 2 hours before their surgery is scheduled to begin. For additional drinking guidelines, watch this short video: CF(Preop)® Drinking Instructions. 

Tip #2 Educate Yourself About Your Surgery

Feeling anxious about surgery is normal, especially if you are not fully educated on what your surgery entails. In order to feel better about going into surgery, it is crucial to educate yourself. While the internet is a great way to get facts, speaking to your Surgeon or Nurse is an even better way to understand your surgery fully. The more you know about the medical procedure you are having, the better you will feel. Pay close attention to the reason you need surgery. If you focus on how much better you will feel after surgery, you are much more likely to have a positive outlook on your procedure. 

Tip #3 Prepare Your Body For Surgery

Ensuring you are in the best shape possible before surgery can be crucial in overall outcomes. There is a strong association between poor nutritional status and surgical outcomes. Several studies report that preoperative nutrition to correct poor nutritional status improves outcomes postoperatively. This may mean you need to gain or lose weight before your surgery. To understand the importance of perioperative nutrition and correcting nutritional status before surgery, consider surgery analogous to a marathon. Before a marathon, you train for an extended period to ensure you will finish the race with the fastest time possible. If you have any injuries or illness, you would likely postpone running the marathon until you were healed and fully recovered because if not, you will not run as fast and perhaps wouldn’t even be able to finish the race. In the big scheme of things, surgery is far more critical than running a marathon, so putting in the same “training” and making sure you are at your strongest before going into surgery will help you recover smoother and quicker. That is why at CF Nutrition, we strive to educate our clients on the importance of perioperative nutrition. 

Appropriate preoperative nutrition can reduce complications and short hospital stays. CF(Protein)® is a plant-based protein drink you can consume in the days and weeks leading up to your surgery to optimize your nutrition. It contains high-quality plant protein, omega three fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory ingredients that will enhance your immune system and optimize your overall health. It is a complete nutrition product to help build muscle and strength for a speedy recovery. Other ways to improve nutritional status can include enteral or parenteral nutrition. For obese patients, it is often required to lose excess weight before surgery. 

Tip#4 Seek Alternative Therapies For Anxiety

Surgery isn’t the only thing that causes stress in our lives. Hopefully, you know by now a few ways to manage stress. Before surgery, it is imperative to practice these daily.

 If you can’t seem to come up with ways to manage stress, here are a few ways we find help us manage stress:

  • Go for a Walk
  • Practice Yoga
  • Call a Friend
  • Spend Time With your Pet
  • Read a Book
  • Journal
  • Take a Bath

Now that you know how to manage stress and anxiety before surgery, put these tips and tricks into action to accelerate your recovery. Visit our website for more information on surgery.

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For Med Pros

Optimizing Nutrition Before Surgery

Nutritional status is a major factor in determining the outcomes of surgery. In order to enhance surgical outcomes, preoperative nutrition must be a focus. Today, we break down how to improve nutritional status leading up to surgery to help enhance surgical outcomes. 

What is preoperative nutrition?

Preoperative nutrition covers a wide variety of things, from assessing and correcting nutritional status before surgery, providing immunonutrition, and carbohydrate loading up to two hours before your surgery. There is a lot involved in preoperative nutrition, and understanding each component can significantly enhance your recovery. 

Should I perform a preoperative nutrition assessment?

YES! One of the main ERAS® preoperative principles is pre-admission counseling. This helps you, as the medical professional, ensure your patients are strong and well nourished before their procedure. There is a strong association between poor nutritional status and surgical outcomes. Several studies report that preoperative nutrition to correct poor nutritional status improves outcomes postoperatively.

How can I correct malnutrition?

Appropriate preoperative nutrition can reduce complications and short hospital stays. CF(Protein)® is a plant-based protein drink you can consume in the days and weeks leading up to your surgery to optimize your nutrition. It contains high-quality plant protein, omega three fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory ingredients that will enhance your immune system and optimize your overall health. It is a complete nutrition product to help build muscle and strength for a speedy recovery. Other ways to improve nutritional status can include enteral or parenteral nutrition. 

How does preoperative carbohydrate loading enhance my patient’s recovery?

Surgery induces a catabolic effect on the body. Reducing the fasting period can help reduce this catabolic effect and enhance recovery. Preoperative carbohydrate loading with CF(Preop)® is also an essential component of preoperative nutrition. Prolonged before surgery fasting may cause detrimental effects. Prolonged fasting worsens the catabolic state, increases metabolic stress, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance.

Furthermore, when the body fasts for a prolonged time, glycogen stores are depleted, leading to protein and muscle breakdown. Postoperative insulin resistance (PIR), a result of the stress response from surgery and further exaggerated with prolonged fasting, is directly related to delayed wound healing, increased morbidity/mortality, and length of stay (LOS). Decreased PIR sets you up for a smoother recovery. Preoperative carbohydrate loading maximizes glycogen stores in the body as an energy source to minimize body tissues’ degeneration and reduce insulin resistance. Changing the metabolic state by shortening preoperative fasting (aka providing CF(Preop)® 2-3 hours before surgery), PIR decreases, protein loss drops, and muscle function will improve. Additionally, preoperative carbohydrate loading increases patients’ comfort and reduces hunger, thirst, and anxiety, leading to surgery, all decreasing stress entering surgery. 

How does preoperative nutrition benefit the medical professional?

Screening patients’ nutritional status, correcting malnutrition and providing preoperative nutrition benefit patients and medical professionals alike. The patient will benefit from a smoother recovery, and the medical professional will help with cost savings, reduced length of stay and postoperative complications, and less readmission. Braga et al. conducted a cost-benefit analysis in 2020 in patients having GI surgery for cancer. They found cost savings secondary to avoidance of complications postoperatively. The study included 305 patients. The groups who received preoperative immunonutrition five days before surgery and the group who received immunonutrition with jejunal feeds consumed 78% of their diagnosis-related group reimbursement rate. In contrast, the group with no supplementation preoperatively consumed over 93% of their diagnosis-related group reimbursement rate. This illustrates the cost savings of providing preoperative nutrition. 

Use CF Nutrition products to optimize your patients’ nutrition before surgery. Explore our website for more information on preoperative nutrition!

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For Med Pros

CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ and Immune Support This Fall

As we enter fall, it’s time to start thinking about how to keep our immune systems strong and healthy. CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ has the perfect plant-based formula to support your immune health this season! Packed with powerful ingredients like Vitamin C, Magnesium, Zinc and Vitamin D, CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ helps you feel the effects of better health and immune protection the natural way. In today’s blog we break down how each of the vitamins and minerals in CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ help support the immune system.

What is the Immune System?

The immune system is an intricate and sophisticated biological system that defends the body from foreign, invading organisms. Maintaining our immune defense systems can help lower the incidence of infection, lessen the severity of symptoms, and decrease the length of illness from the common cold and other illnesses. 

How Does CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ Support the Immune System?

CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+  is a natural electrolyte replacement drink that may help support healthy immune function, especially when the risk of contracting illness is high. CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ has immune-supporting ingredients like Vitamin D and Zinc that may support optimal health and nourishment. 

In one 12 oz serving of CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+, there are 40 calories and no added sugar. Additionally, it contains 25% of the recommended daily values (DV) of Vitamin D and Zinc, 100% of the DV of Vitamin C, 20% of the DV of Selenium, 15% of the DV of Phosphorus, 4% of the DV of Potassium, and 10% of the DV of Magnesium. 

Each vitamin and mineral are crucial to support a healthy, fully functioning immune system. Drinking CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+  can help meet the recommended daily amounts (RDA) of specific vitamins and minerals that support immunity. Eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables and a well-balanced diet is crucial, but CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+  is an excellent addition to any healthy diet. 

What is Each Vitamin and Mineral’s Role in the Immune System?

Vitamin D plays an essential role in immune health. Its function is to regulate adaptive immune responses. Recent data has shown that Vitamin D deficiency appears to increase susceptibility to certain illnesses. Additionally, cross-sectional studies associate lower levels of Vitamin D with increased infection. One study showed that individuals with lower Vitamin D levels were more likely to have recent upper respiratory tract infections than those with sufficient Vitamin D levels.. Consuming just one serving of CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ meets 25% of the DV of Vitamin D. 

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that helps the formation of collagen. As an antioxidant, Vitamin C protects against environmental oxidative stress. Vitamin C deficiency leads to impaired immunity and increased infection. Vitamin C can readily donate electrons and, in turn, protect from damage by oxidants. Vitamin C also plays a crucial role in promoting wound healing. Consuming one serving of CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ provides 100% of the DV of Vitamin C.  

Selenium is a mineral that is not as commonly discussed as Zinc, Vitamin C, or Vitamin D as it relates to immune health. Selenium is also an antioxidant that helps support the immune system. It plays an essential role in our body, and adequate amounts promote optimal health. Sufficient quantities of Selenium are needed to initiate immunity and regulate excessive immune response and chronic inflammation.. Research has shown that selenium deficiency negatively affects the immune cells and leads to increased oxidative stress. One serving of CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ has 20% of the DV of Selenium. 

Magnesium is necessary for healthy muscle function. Magnesium supports glucose metabolism and plays a vital role in the use of energy-rich compounds. Exercise may deplete Magnesium, and the ability to perform physical work is sometimes compromised. The immune function may also temporarily suffer during bouts of prolonged exercise or excessive training. Sometimes, this can lead to infection. Replacing Magnesium is crucial, so consuming CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ after a workout is ideal. Magnesium also has a strong relationship with the immune system. Magnesium deficiency may pose a risk to the immune system and lead to an inflammatory response. There is 10% of the DV of Magnesium in one serving of CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+.

Zinc strengthens the immune system and promotes healthy cell function. Plasma Zinc levels decline during bacterial infections, and dietary Zinc deficiency predisposes individuals to certain infectious diseases. Zinc may also strengthen immunity by defending against harmful internal macrophages and decreasing oxidative stress. There is 25% of the DV of Zinc in one serving of CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+. 

Phosphorus is vital for cellular function, acid-base balance, and cellular structure. If phosphorus becomes low, it can be life-threatening. CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ contains 15% of the DV of Phosphorus. 

Get your immune support this fall and order your CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+  today!

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For Med Pros Nutrition Preparing for Surgery

Is CF(Preop)® Safe For Patients with Diabetes?

One of the most asked questions when it comes to CF(Preop)® is whether or not patients with diabetes may consume it before surgery. Today, we break down the research surrounding preoperative carbohydrate loading for patients with diabetes. We also discuss CF Nutrition’s protocol for carbohydrate loading in patients with diabetes.

 Why is preoperative carb loading necessary?

Before ERAS® protocols were discovered, the traditional approach to surgery was to fast after midnight prior to surgery to decrease the risk for aspiration. In the 1990’s, evidence-based research suggested that this was not necessary. There are detrimental effects caused by this period of prolonged fasting. Prolonged fasting worsens the catabolic state, increases metabolic stress, hyperglycemia and insulin resistance. Furthermore, when the body is fasted for a prolonged time, glycogen stores are depleted which can lead to protein and muscle breakdown. Postoperative insulin resistance (PIR), a result of the stress response from surgery and further exaggerated with prolonged fasting, is directly related to delayed wound healing, increased morbidity/mortality and LOS . To enhance recovery after surgery, it is important to decrease PIR. Preoperative carbohydrate loading maximizes glycogen stores in the body as an energy source in order to minimize degeneration of body tissues and reduce insulin resistance. By changing the metabolic state, and shortening preoperative fasting (aka providing a complex carbohydrate 2-3 hours prior to surgery), PIR will be decreased, protein loss will be reduced, and muscle function will improve.

What has CF Nutrition done to research the use of CF(Preop)® for patients with diabetes?

The founder of CF Nutrition, Dr. Lou Marsh, researched CF(Preop)® and blood glucose levels extensively. She found that after ingestion of 50 grams of carbohydrate, the blood glucose levels will spike in any individual. What becomes important is the time the patient drinks CF(Preop)® and the time the blood glucose levels are checked. This will help to see where each specific patient’s blood glucose levels are at two hours after consuming CF(Preop)® and eliminate any excess intervention which leads to hypoglycemia intra-operatively. If blood sugars are checked prior to the two hour mark, excess insulin may be prescribed which leads to hypoglycemia intra-operatively. CF Nutrition provides a questionnaire to help create a standardization of care for checking blood glucose before, during and after surgery. 

What research studies support preoperative carb loading in patients with diabetes?

Administering a carbohydrate drink prior to surgery leaves some surgeons skeptical on the effects it may have on blood glucose levels. Unfortunately, several studies exclude diabetic patients. However, there are some studies that have been done to evaluate the safety of administering dextrose to diabetic patients undergoing surgery. Gustafsson et al conducted a study to evaluate the safety of preoperative carbohydrate loading on patients with diabetes. Twenty-five patients were included with type 2 diabetes (mean HbAlc 6.2± 0.2%) and 10 healthy control subjects. A carbohydrate drink (400mL, 12.5%) was given with the determination of gastric emptying. 

As expected, peak glucose was significantly higher in the diabetic patients compared to the control (p<0.01) and occurred later after intake of the carbohydrate drink (p<0.01). Glucose returned to baseline in 180 minutes in diabetic patients and 120 minutes in the control group (p<0.01). In terms of gastric emptying, at 120 minutes, 10.9 ± 0.7% and 13.3 ± 1.2% of paracetamol remained in the stomach in diabetic and healthy subjects respectively. Gastric half-emptying time occurred at 49.8 ± 2.2 minutes in diabetics and 58.6± 3.7 minute in healthy subjects (p<0.05). These results illustrate that there are no signs of delayed gastric emptying. Therefore, a carbohydrate drink can safely be administered 180 minutes before anesthesia without risk of hyperglycemia or aspiration risk preoperatively according to the results from this study.

​Furthermore, Li Na Ge et al conducted a systematic review to examine the effectiveness and safety of oral carbohydrates in those with diabetes. The review included 5 randomized control trials. Because there are no widely accepted indicators of the effects of preoperative carbohydrate in surgical patients with diabetes, this systematic review intended to offer a basis for the progress of ERAS® pathways for diabetic patients. This systematic review concludes that preoperative oral carbohydrate is effective, safe, and feasible for patients with diabetes. When a diabetic patient is fasted, the lack of glycogen reserve can lead to an insufficient energy supply, strong fluctuation of blood glucose, increased risk of hypoglycemia, nerve and kidney damage, and injury of tissues and organs. Additionally, prolonged fasting increases stress. This increased stress joint with surgical trauma can lead to increased glucocorticoids and glucagon, reduced insulin sensitivity, and reduced utilization of glucose in peripheral tissues. As a result, patients are at risk for postoperative hyperglycemia and increased insulin resistance. Postoperative insulin resistance can increase risk for developing infection and increasing length of stay. By consuming an oral carbohydrate 2-3 hours before surgery, the energy supply is enhanced consequently reducing perioperative hypoglycemia and insulin resistance. 

Providing a carbohydrate drink prior to surgery may help to reduce the stress response of surgery and put the body into a FED state entering surgery. Putting the body into a more normal physiological state entering surgery may be advantageous in overall recovery. 

What are CF Nutrition’s recommendations for CF(Preop)® and patients with diabetes?

With all this being said, here are important things to consider when providing CF(Preop)® to a diabetic patient:

1. Do they have a known risk for delayed gastric emptying? If so, consider adjusting the window for consuming CF(Preop)® per MD recommendations

2. A pt’s blood glucose will spike after the consumption CF(Preop)® however, it should return to baseline

3. Blood glucose should be checked regularly 

CF Nutrition  Recommendations:

Type 1 Diabetic 

With appropriate insulin administration, yields euglycemia. 

• 1st Bottle: Drink the night before surgery once in the fasting window 

• 2nd Bottle: Complete 2 hours before surgery Patients simply “match their short-acting insulin injections” to their blood glucose level and to the carb load that is listed on the drink label.

Type 2 Diabetic 

With preservation of their oral antihyperglycemic agent schedule at bedtime. 

• 1st Bottle: Drink the night before surgery once in the fasting window

• 2nd Bottle: Complete 2 hours before surgery Morning dose of oral agent may be held based on the actual surgical time, e.g., as when surgery is scheduled as one of the first cases of the morning.

Now that you know CF(Preop)® may be used in patients with diabetes, visit our website to purchase today!

Categories
For Med Pros Nutrition Preparing for Surgery

Prepare Your Patient for Surgery With CF Nutrition

At CF Nutrition, our goal is to help prepare your patient for surgery with premium nutrition beverages. Our mission is to use clean ingredients you can feel good about giving to your patients and we do not use any artificial ingredients or dyes. We know that surgery can be a stressful time so our products are designed to help reduce the surgical response of surgery and improve surgical outcomes. We have a full product suite that provides support to your patient before, during, and after their procedure.

Provide CF(Protein)® in the weeks leading up to surgery:

CF(Protein)® is a plant-based protein drink that provides a concentrated dose of natural electrolytes, antioxidants, and essential fats. CF(Protein)® is a great choice for anyone who is preparing for, or recovering from an operation. Plant protein is the modern way to give your body the best nutrients with the lowest impact on your digestive system.

Each CF(Protein)® has 13g of protein per bottle. So, depending on what else your patient is eating or drinking, and their specific protein needs, consuming 1 to 2 CF(Protein)® drinks per day can help ensure your patient is optimizing their nutrition prior to surgery. Prior to surgery, drinking 1-2 bottles per day (in addition to a well-balanced diet) for at least 2 weeks prior to surgery, will help your patient feel strong and well-nourished for their operation. 

Some benefits of drinking CF(Protein)® are:

·      Promote muscle maintenance, repair, and recovery

·      Strengthen the immune system

·      Reduce risk of malnourishment

·      Antioxidants & anti-inflammatory ingredients

·      Concentrated nutrition on-the-go

·      Healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fats

·      Naturally derived vitamins & minerals

·      Essential amino acids

·      Natural fiber sources

·      No artificial colors or flavors

·      Shelf-stable

·      Gluten-Free, Kosher, Vegan, Dairy-Free

·      Convenient on-the-go protein source

Recommend CF(Preop)® the night before and morning of surgery:

CF(Preop)® is a clear, colorless drink specifically formulated by an anesthesiologist for safe consumption in the hours before surgery. Each of its premium ingredients has been intentionally chosen to promote the highest level of presurgery safety, comfort, and nourishment.

It takes approximately 90 minutes for the oral carbohydrate solution to pass the stomach. Solid foods can be ingested up to 6 hours prior to surgery. The amount of carbohydrate to induce an effect must be enough to shift the body from a fasted to a fed state (50g carbohydrates 2 hours prior to surgery). There is no protein or fat in CF(Preop)® in order for it to safely empty your patient’s stomach before surgery. If your patient has delayed gastric emptying due to an underlying condition, CF(Preop)®  should be consumed 3-4 hours before the procedure. 

Provide CF(Rehydrate)®  or CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ after surgery:

After surgery, patients are oftentimes very dehydrated and can only have clear liquids. The intentional formulation behind both CF(Rehydrate)® and CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ replenishes lost fluids and essential electrolytes. CF(Rehydrate)® and CF(Rehydrate)® Immunity+ also has an ideal combination of carbohydrates and sodium to help you recover quicker. Recommending either post surgery can help promote recovery and hydration. 

Now that you know CF Nutrition offers a wide variety of products to help improve surgical outcomes, head to our website to purchase or receive samples!

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Featured Posts For Med Pros

CF Nutrition Pairs With Goldfinch Health to Help Reduce Opioid Use Post Surgery

The overuse of opioids after surgery has become a worldwide issue. Though important after surgery to reduce pain, opioids have become misused causing chronic use and addiction. Goldfinch Health has designed a program to help reduce the use of opioids post surgery. They have teamed up with CF Nutrition to include CF(Preop)® as part of their Prepared for Surgery Toolkit. Today, we break down what the program and kit entails and how it may help millions with opioid addiction. 

What is the Billion Pill Pledge Program?

The Billion Pill Pledge Program was designed to help reduce the need for opioids post surgery. Opioids are important and serve a purpose in reducing pain after surgery. However, over the years, the use of opioids after surgery has developed into misuse and addiction affecting the lives of many. The mission of the Billion Pill Pledge Program is to help resolve this crisis by implementing Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS®) protocols, like the use of CF(Preop)®, to reduce the need for opioids. The Billion Pill Pledge Program is currently in the pilot phase and has rolled out into 4 rural hospitals in Iowa. 

The program was designed by Goldfinch Health and the cofounder John Greenwood aims to remove billions of unused opioids with the program. With this program, patients are given a care package before their procedure.

 The care package includes:

  • Ice and heat packs
  • A drug disposal bag
  • One bottle of CF(Preop)®

The goal of the kit is to reduce pain using non-addictive procedures so that the need for opioids is eliminated or at least reduced. 

How will CF(Preop)® help reduce opioid use?

The intention of Goldfinch Health in including CF(Preop)® is to help the patient’s pain tolerance. CF(Preop)® is a clear, colorless drink specifically formulated by an anesthesiologist for safe consumption hours before surgery. CF(Preop)®  is formulated for surgery and meets the ASA® requirements to make it safe for consumption before your surgery. Choosing to drink CF(Preop)® before your surgery helps you feel back to normal as soon as possible. 

The main ERAS® principles include protocols for preoperative, intraoperative and postoperative care. All ERAS® protocols aim to lessen the body’s response to surgical trauma and maintain normal physiological function during surgery. Preoperative carbohydrate loading with CF(Preop)® is one of the preoperative principles of ERAS®. The American Society of Anesthesia has promoted the use of clear carbohydrate beverages up to 2 hours before surgery to help reduce dehydration among patients. 

Non-opioid oral analgesia NSAID is one of the postoperative protocols in ERAS®.  The more ERAS® principles observed throughout the patient’s surgical journey, the better the chances for a smooth recovery with reduced complications. All ERAS® protocols are evidence-based and require patient education as well as a knowledgeable team approach. 

CF Nutrition is beyond excited to be a part of the Billion Pill Pledge Initiative to help save the lives of many and reduce the opioid crisis worldwide.

Categories
For Med Pros Medical Professionals Presurgery Nutrition Wellness + Medical Tips

Why Do Patients Need More Protein Before Surgery?

At CF Nutrition, our goal is to help support patients through the entire journey of surgery. This not only includes the days leading up to surgery but the weeks prior to and immediately following surgery. It is crucial to prepare your patients as best as possible in order for them to recover quickly. Protein is a key macronutrient in helping support your patients through surgery. 

What is CF(Protein)® ?

CF(Protein)® is a plant-based protein drink that provides a concentrated dose of natural electrolytes, antioxidants, and essential fats. CF(Protein)® is a great choice for anyone who is preparing for, or recovering from surgery. Plant protein is the modern way to give the body the best nutrients with the lowest impact on the digestive system. CF(Protein)® contains13 g of delicious, clean plant protein packed into an 8-oz bottle. 

Some benefits of drinking CF(Protein)® are:

·      Promote muscle maintenance, repair, and recovery

·      Strengthen the immune system

·      Reduce risk of malnourishment

·      Antioxidants & anti-inflammatory ingredients

·      Concentrated nutrition on-the-go

·      Healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fats

·      Naturally derived vitamins & minerals

·      Essential amino acids

·      Natural fiber sources

·      No artificial colors or flavors

·      Shelf-stable

·      Gluten-Free, Kosher, Non-GMO, Vegan, Dairy-Free

·      Convenient on-the-go protein source

How often should your patient drink CF(Protein)® before and surgery?

Each CF(Protein)® has 13 g of protein per bottle.  Prior to surgery, drinking 1-2 bottles per day (in addition to a well-balanced diet) for at least 2 weeks prior to surgery, will help your patient to feel strong and well-nourished for their operation.  CF(Protein)® is not designed to be a sole source of nutrition. Therefore, consuming whole foods, high in protein, is recommended before and after surgery in order to meet protein and calorie needs.

What else does CF(Protein)® contain that can support your patient for surgery?  

In addition to the protein content in CF(Protein)®, it also contains chia seed oil and turmeric which are anti-inflammatory. These will also help you to ensure your patients are at optimal nutrition status for their surgery as well as strengthen their immune system. The antioxidants in CF(Protein)® will help your patient to fight off diseases and strengthen their immunity.

Are protein needs increased before surgery?

There are a variety of factors that determine specific protein needs. These include age, activity level, chronic diseases, weight, and fitness goals. Typically, someone who is preparing for, or recovering from surgery has increased protein needs. This is to help the body ensure a speedy recovery.

If your patient is malnourished, it is important that you ensure they are consuming adequate calories and protein leading up to their surgery. Nutritional status is crucial prior to surgery. A nutritional assessment should be completed prior to any surgery to reduce the risk for postoperative complications, increased length of stay, and risk for infection. A patient can be diagnosed with mild or severe malnutrition by the MD. A Registered Dietitian can also assess the patient for mild to severe malnutrition. 

The following criteria from Academy Adult Malnutrition Criteria (ASPEN) is used to identify moderate malnutrition. A patient must have at least two of following to be diagnosed with moderate malnutrition: weight loss >2% in 1 week, >5% in one month or >7.5% in 3 months; Energy intake less than or equal to 50% compared to estimated needs for greater than or equal to 5 days; Moderate body fat depletion; Moderate muscle mass depletion; Moderate to Severe Fluid Accumulation; and reduced grip strength. Furthermore, a patient must have at least two of the following to be diagnosed with severe malnutrition: Weight loss 1-2% in 1 week, 5% in one month, 7.5% in 3 months; Energy intake <75% compared to estimated needs in 7 days; mild body fat depletion; mild muscle mass depletion; mild fluid accumulation; and reduced grip strength.

What if my patient is malnourished?

It is imperative to correct malnutrition in a patient prior to their surgery. Research proves that malnutrition is a leading reason for poor outcomes postoperative. Studies show that preoperative nutritional deficiency is a strong predictor of 90 days mortality and poor overall survival. Nutrition status can be improved with recommendations from a Registered Dietitian. Common recommendations include high protein supplements such as CF(Protein)®. Other ways to improve nutritional status can include enteral or parenteral nutrition. For obese patients, it is often required to lose excess weight prior to surgery.

How do I determine the protein needs for my patients before surgery?  

To determine how much protein your patient needs before or after surgery, take their body weight in kilograms and times it by 1.5 to 2.0.

If your patient’s weight is 150LB.

·      Divide the weight in LB by 2.2 to get the weight in kg

o  150/2.2 = 68.2 kg

·      Next, multiply the body weight by 1.5 to 2.0

o  68 times 1.5=102; 68 times 2.0=136 g

·      They should consume 102-136 g per day of protein

Now that you understand how crucial protein is before surgery, head to our website to order samples or purchase CF(Protein)® today!

Categories
For Med Pros Preparing for Surgery

    CF Nutrition Products During Cancer Treatment

CF Nutrition products help nourish, hydrate, and better prepare your patients for surgery. Our products may be beneficial to your patients diagnosed with cancer to help them recover faster after surgery and to stay hydrated during treatments. 

 CF(Preop)® Before a Cancer Procedure

   If your patient is undergoing surgery related to their cancer treatment, CF(Preop)® can help them enhance their recovery after surgery. We recommend advising your patients to consume one CF(Preop)® at 8:00 PM the night before their surgery and one CF(Preop)® on the morning of their surgery (up to two hours before surgery/procedure).

           ERAS® protocols, specifically preoperative carbohydrate loading before surgery, have shown positive results in recent studies on cancer patients. Often, surgical resection is the only cure for certain types of cancer. During surgery, the body’s stress response increases, inhibiting immune function and increasing inflammatory markers (Wang et al.). In turn, recovery is delayed, and the risk for infection and postoperative complications increases. The goal of ERAS® protocols is to maintain organ function and decrease stress response following surgery. By reducing the stress response, the body will return to normal physiology sooner, which is crucial in cancer patients. Therefore, consuming CF(Preop)® before surgery will allow them to recover from their surgery sooner and decrease the risk for postoperative complications. 

CF Nutrition Products During Chemotherapy 

 If your patient is undergoing chemotherapy, consuming CF(Rehydrate)® throughout their chemotherapy duration can help them replenish their body with medical-grade nutrition and hydration needed to prevent dehydration. 

 If they are receiving chemotherapy, replenishing their body afterward is crucial. Dehydration is a common side effect of cancer treatments. Additionally, vomiting and diarrhea are also common side effects of chemotherapy which again lead to dehydration. We recommend advising patients to consume CF(Rehydrate)® or  CF(Rehydrate)® IMMUNITY+ after their session, along with the days following. In doing so, they will replenish their body with the vitamins, minerals, electrolytes, and fluid they need to feel better as soon as possible. Consuming CF(Rehydrate)® or  CF(Rehydrate)® IMMUNITY+ throughout their chemotherapy duration can help your patient to combat chemotherapy’s adverse side effects and prevent dehydration.  

         Unfortunately, if your patient is receiving chemotherapy, CF(Protein)® may not be recommended. It is important to note CF(Protein)® contains turmeric. Turmeric has blood-thinning properties and may interact with certain chemotherapy medications. When it comes to turmeric, the dosage does make a difference. There is 0.3g of turmeric in one bottle of CF(Protein)®.  Curcumin may act as an estrogen hormone. So, it may make hormone-sensitive conditions worse. Although this is not proven, if your patient has any hormone-sensitive need, avoid turmeric or use it with caution and only with MD approval. Hormone-sensitive conditions include breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids.

Now that you know what CF Nutrition products may be right for your patient undergoing a procedure or cancer treatment, head to our website to learn more and receive samples for your patients to try. 

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