Fasting, IV fluids, narcotic, and bed rest are common post-surgery protocols hospitals have used for many years. But many medical centers are starting to abandon those approaches in favor of healthier options, the Wall Street Journal reports.

New research has raised questions about such practices noting a lack of nutrients, fluid overload, inactivity, and drug side effects can do more harm than good after surgery.

Many hospitals are turning to “enhanced recovery” protocols that help patients get better faster with fewer infections and other complications.

The changes, pioneered in Europe, are gaining popularity in the U.S. — particularly after surgeries for bladder, pancreas, liver, breast, and colorectal cancer, as well as hip fracture and joint replacements.

With traditional regimens, patients can remain in the hospital for 10 days or more with complication rates of up to 48 percent and an average $10,000 in additional costs, according to researchers at Duke University School of Medicine, the Journal reports.