Which nutrient is needed for wound healing?

Healing of wounds, whether from accidental

injury or surgical intervention, involves the

activity of an intricate network of blood cells,

tissue types, cytokines, and growth factors.

This results in increased cellular activity, which

causes an intensified metabolic demand for

nutrients. Nutritional deficiencies can impede

wound healing, and several nutritional factors

required for wound repair may improve healing

time and wound outcome. Vitamin A is required

for epithelial and bone formation, cellular

differentiation, and immune function. Vitamin

C is necessary for collagen formation, proper

immune function, and as a tissue antioxidant.

Vitamin E is the major lipid-soluble antioxidant

in the skin; however, the effect of vitamin E on

surgical wounds is inconclusive. Bromelain

reduces edema, bruising, pain, and healing

time following trauma and surgical procedures.

Glucosamine appears to be the rate-limiting

substrate for hyaluronic acid production in the

wound. Adequate dietary protein is absolutely

essential for proper wound healing, and tissue

levels of the amino acids arginine and

glutamine may influence wound repair and

immune function.