Preoperative carbohydrate loading improves surgical outcomes in colorectal surgery.

Oral carbohydrate loading before elective colorectal surgery significantly reduces postoperative insulin resistance, inflammatory markers, and improves patient well-being. In a randomized controlled trial with 72 participants, the carbohydrate loading group showed a marked decrease in insulin resistance on the day of surgery and postoperatively. Additionally, patients experienced less thirst, hunger, and dry mouth, contributing to a shorter length of hospital stay and an overall enhancement in clinical outcomes.