The healing of the surgical wound is a difficult biological process that should be supported by appropriate nutrition. In the process of healing post-surgery, injury or with a chronic wound, what you eat determines the speed and effectiveness with which your body heals.
Protein is the basic component of the new tissue and the central ingredient of healing. Eggs, chicken, fish, paneer, and lentils are the kinds of foods that contain the necessary amino acids that are beneficial in regenerating the damaged skin and muscle. Lack of sufficient protein may slow down wound healing and it may also become more susceptible to infections.
Vitamin C is also important, and it is essential in the formation of collagen, the protein that makes the skin strong and intact. Adding such foods as amla, guava, citrus fruits and bell pepper to your food will speed up the recovery of tissues and improve immunity. Actually, guava and amla are some of the most potent natural sources of vitaminC and thus, they are excellent to add to the healing diet.
The other important nutrient that facilitates the process of skin regeneration and improves the immune system of the body is Vitamin A. Green vegetables including spinach are also good sources of this vitamin as well as carrots, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes which protect wounds against infection.
Minerals such as Zinc and Iron are usually ignored but they are the important ones in the recovery. Zinc facilitates the growth and healing of cells and iron provides sufficient oxygen to body tissues. These nutrients are found in nuts, seeds, dates, spinach and lean meats.
There is also omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish, walnuts and flaxseeds which can reduce excessive inflammation, which provides a more favourable condition to heal. Although inflammation is a normal process of recovery, excess inflammation may delay recovery.
Fluid replacement is also important. Water, soups, and coconut water are fluids that assist in keeping the skin toned and aiding the transportation of nutrients to the healing tissues.
Conversely, reduction of sugar, processed foods, and alcohol is also necessary since these may weaken immune response and slow down recovery.
Wound healing is not the question of medical care only, but nutrition plays a crucial role in the process. A healthy diet, composed of adequate Caloric value with the required amounts of protein, vitamins, minerals, and fluids can be a huge impetus to the recovery process, as this way the body can recover stronger and much quicker.
