The Building Blocks of Wound Healing

The Building Blocks of Wound Healing

We all know that eating well is good for us, but what does that have to do with wound healing? A lot, it turns out. Though often overlooked, good nutrition is extremely important; wounds must be well-fed to heal. During the healing process, your body is busy adding new tissue, replacing fluids and fighting infection, so it needs increased amounts of water, calories, protein and vitamins.

Water

Drinking extra fluids replaces fluids lost from wounds. For those with heavily draining wounds, this is especially important. Hydration also helps to regulate body temperature and deliver nutrients to cells. Choose fluids wisely and avoid sugary, caffeinated drinks. Water is the best and least expensive option for hydration.

Calories

Calories provide energy to the body. Because the body requires extra energy to heal a wound, increased calorie intake is an important factor for healing. If you do not feel you can eat 3 large, calorie-dense meals per day, try eating 5 or 6 small meals or snacks.

Protein

Very important through all phases of healing, protein is required for new cell and tissue growth. Protein also helps fight infection, balances body fluids and carries oxygen through your body. Increase your intake by adding various proteins to your diet, like chicken, fish, turkey or eggs. If you are having difficulty getting the recommended amount of protein, try a protein supplement such as Juven®, Boost®, Ensure® or Carnation® Instant Breakfast. Add a tablespoon of peanut butter or almond butter to supplements to enhance the flavor.

Vitamins

During the healing process, the body needs vitamins for various purposes. Vitamin C aids tissue repair. Vitamin B-complex helps cell growth and increases the oxygen supply to your wound. Vitamin A helps to decrease the negative effects of any steroid treatment you are receiving for wound healing. Get these vitamins and more by increasing your fruit and vegetable intake. Good quality multivitamins can also offer the recommended amount of these vitamins and other minerals, such as zinc, iron and copper.

The Bottom Line

Because wound care is essential to those with wounds, Kirby Wound Care focuses on providing patients with all the tools they need for optimized healing, which also includes nutrition counselling. The wound care specialists at Kirby Wound Care work in conjunction with each patient’s primary care provider to recommend dietary changes to promote wound healing.

Don’t wait! Kickstart your wound-healing journey today by taking steps toward eating a nutrient rich diet. Luckily, you can train your brain and your taste buds to adopt a nutritious diet. Your wounds will thank you.