Wellness
Find additional health information that supports you and your loved ones throughout your wellness journey.
Nutritional Guidelines for Wound Care
Your body requires essential vitamins and nutrients to heal wounds. This holds especially true for individuals who have chronic illnesses like diabetes that inhibit the wound-healing process. People with diabetes or other health conditions may also be on restricted diets. It is especially important they are getting enough protein and calories to help give their bodies the energy needed to heal wounds and fight infection.
Protein, vitamin A, vitamin C and zinc are especially important for wound healing:
|
Protein |
Vitamin A |
Vitamin C |
Zinc |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Role |
Helps in all stages of the wound healing process, primarily in the formation of new blood vessels. |
Helps to regenerate epithelial tissue and boost immune function to fight infection. |
Essential for scar tissue formation and the creation of new collagen. |
Supports the immune system and is required for protein synthesis. |
|
Foods
|
Beef, fish, poultry, eggs, cheese, milk, dried beans 2-3 servings/day |
Green leafy veggies, orange fruits, fortified dairy products |
Citrus, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, strawberries |
Fortified cereals, red meat, pumpkin seeds, oysters |
|
Recommended Amount |
2-3 servings/day |
1-2 servings/day |
1-2 servings/day |
8-11 mg./day |
Personalized Wound Care Plans for Patients in the Tampa Bay Area
In addition to following dietary guidelines, some individuals may require additional treatment to manage wounds due to diabetes, immobility, surgery, lymphedema, or vascular disorders. BayCare offers a wide range of advanced wound care therapies at our wound care centers in Tampa, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Palm Harbor and Plant City. To learn more, call (855) 546-6296 or find a doctor near you.