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            Organ transplantation has progressively evolved since the 1950’s, and continues to be ever-increasing in its success rate. Single organ transplants are most common with kidney, liver, heart and lung, and even combination heart-lung transplants are increasing in occurrence now. Successful transplantation rates vary with each type of surgery, but overall most boast greater than 70% success. A large part of this has resulted from treatments that suppress the body’s own immune system after transplantation so that the new organ is not attacked and “rejected”. It is also known that good general health, weight measures and nutritional aspects are critical for long term success.

            One of the common problems after transplantation involves weight gain. Some of this may result from post-surgical symptoms that limit exercise, but often it can result from medication side effects. Steroids particularly can result in increased weight gain. Some studies show that women are more vulnerable than men to an increase in weight and body fat percentage after transplant procedures. Increased weight has been linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure, diabetes, as well as heart disease. Eating healthy and maintaining regular exercise are important measures in this regard.

            Steroids can also place one at risk for osteoporosis and high glucose levels in the blood. In addition to exercise, adequate dietary or supplemental intake of calcium, phosphorus and Vitamin D are important to prevent reduced bone density. In addition, isoflavones, which are a type of plant nutrients found in soy products, can protect bone health. Regarding elevated glucose levels, this may need to be monitored closely while on steroids. High glucose in the blood stream can result in a greater loss of water soluble vitamins like B complex vitamins, folic acid, Vitamin C in the urine, as well as many minerals including calcium and magnesium. Adequate zinc intake has actually been shown to help stabilize blood glucose levels. Supplements of these vitamins and minerals may be needed if glucose is consistently elevated.

            Some of the other treatments after transplantation can also result in some serious problems as well.  Because many suppress the immune system, the body is more at risk for infections and even cancers. Vitamin therapies that speed wound healing and ward off infections include Vitamins A, C and B5. These enhance scar formation and incisional healing as well. Also, Zinc is helpful with wound healing. Other micronutrients that provide anti-oxidant properties and help with infections and inflammations include Vitamin E, flavonoids, isoflavones, carotenoids, and selenium. This in addition to maintaining adequate rest and exercise are important.

            Other treatment side effects can include an elevated cholesterol level and also a rise in blood pressure. In addition to monitoring cholesterol intake and sodium intake, calcium is very helpful at lowering cholesterol levels and has been shown to keep lower blood pressure levels even when higher salt intake is consumed. Magnesium likewise has blood pressure lowering properties. Coenzyme Q may lower blood pressure, but does also assist with some of the detrimental effects of cholesterol metabolism. Other micronutrients that assist with cholesterol control include isoflavones, garlic, allium, and quercetin. Maintaining a good source of these nutrients either through diet or supplements can give therapies the optimal chance of effectiveness by preventing complications.

            While many of the above measures target specific side effects, complications or symptoms of post-transplant procedures, overall general nutrition is very important. An attack or “rejection” of a new organ transplant by the immune system has been shown to be significantly less in those with adequate nutrition. Also rates of re-hospitalization were less when nutrition was optimal. Organ transplantation exerts a substantial stress upon one’s body, and both pre-operatively and post-operatively it is very beneficial to focus on preventative nutrition and well-being.