Nutrition and Wound Healing

Nutrition and Wound Healing

Francis Muriithi

University of Nairobi

There are many theories explaining the essential role that nutrition plays in wound healing. With inadequate nutrition, wound healing process is impaired and prolonged (Sherman & Barkley, 2011). The process of wound healing involves replacing damaged tissues with new tissues produced by the body that entails an increased expenditure of energy and certain nutrients especially calories and proteins. Protein is vital for the repair and maintenance of body tissues. Inadequate protein lead to decreased collagen development that slows wound healing process (Arnold & Barbul, 2006). Amino acids such as L-Arginine has a number of properties that improve several pathways related to wound healing process.

Fats provides fuel important for wound healing. Fats are a concentrated and safe source of energy, and they contain more energy than carbohydrates (Arnold & Barbul, 2006). Fatty acids are a significant constituent of the cell membranes and thus are needed in the formation of new cells to replace the injured ones. Carbohydrate is the main calories for use by our bodies, and its availability prevents the body from converting other nutrients such as proteins into energy. Antioxidants especially vitamin C are essential for collagen synthesis and enhancing the process of new blood vessels formation (Sherman & Barkley, 2011).This vitamin also enhances iron absorption and strengthens wound healing.

Vitamin A triggers the inflammatory process in wounds, and this stimulates collagen synthesis. Vitamin E is essential in reducing damage to the wound by regulating excessive free radicals (Arnold & Barbul, 2006). Mineral such as zinc plays a major role in tissue growth, collagen and protein synthesis that are important in wound healing process (Sherman & Barkley, 2011). Iron avails oxygen to the wound’s site and also aid in collagen production that helps in wound strengthening. There is a common theme in the theories that explain the role of nutrition in wound healing.

References

Arnold, M., & Barbul, A. (2006). Nutrition and wound healing. Plastic and reconstructive surgery, 117(7S), 42S-58S.

Sherman, A. R., & Barkley, M. (2011). Nutrition and wound healing. Journal of wound care, 20(8), 357-367.