The role nutrition plays in wound healing: Five foods that can speed up the wound healing process

The healing of wounds is complex. It takes time for a wound to heal itself back to its former condition. While there is no concrete cure for wounds, the food that we eat plays a role in the healing process.

Nutritional intake that is high in protein is considered to have long-term benefits to a wound and can speed up the time it takes for the wound to heal.

If you are suffering from a wound and are waiting for it to heal, eating a diet rich in protein and other essential nutrients could be one of the best moves you make to help heal your wound.
Take a look at several foods that are known to help speed up the healing of wounds.

Nuts

Nuts are a great source of protein. In fact, nuts are hailed as a “wound healing superfood.” Laden with ‘good fats’, nuts provide the body with energy that promotes a healthy movement of cells within the wound and the delivery of nutrients and oxygen to the wound bed.

Beans

Another protein-rich food are beans. Eating a diet that has plenty of beans, lentils and peas in it can help reduce the amount of time the wound takes to heal.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich with lycopene, an antioxidant that is known for promoting a good immune system and protecting the body from oxidation that can lead to damaged cells. Eating plenty of tomatoes can therefore reduce the risk of wounds becoming infecting, significantly slowing the healing process down.

Chocolate

Chocolate lovers may be pleased to hear their sweet tooth could help promote the healing of wounds. Dark chocolate is full of antioxidants and can help maintain normal blood pressure levels. Maintaining healthy blood pressure is a leading factor in helping wounds heal as it ensures the necessary oxygen, nutrients and vitamins are delivered to the bed of the wound.

Milk

Being rich in calcium and protein, consuming plenty of milk can help strengthen the body and speed up the wound healing process. Soy milk can be particularly effective in supporting the immune system and advancing the development of new tissue.

Adding these foods to a healthy, well-balanced diet that includes plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, can be an effective way to complement the dressing of wounds and speed up the whole healing process.