Proper nutrition is crucial to help wounds heal properly. In fact, increased amounts of nutrients are needed for the healing process, one of which is protein. Second only to water, the most abundant nutrient in your body, protein helps build cells, supplies enzymes, builds muscles and supplies collagen to connective tissues. It lowers the risk of surgical complications and is essential for healing.
Role in Wound Healing
Sufficient protein is needed during wound healing, when the body is in an increased state of tissue repair and regeneration. Collagen is very important in the strengthening of the tissue around the wound and is provided by protein during the inflammatory phase of healing.
Necessary Amino Acids
The protein molecules supply amino acids to the affected tissues. The two most important amino acids are glutamine and arginine. Glutamine is used by cells within the wound for energy and to speed up the healing process; it is released by the skeletal muscles after surgery and is necessary for adequate tissue repair. Arginine contributes to greater protein and collagen accumulation and immune activity at the site of the wound.
Protein Deficiency During Wound Healing
A deficiency of protein, even for a short time, can significantly delay the rate and quality of wound healing. Inadequate consumption of protein creates this deficit. Not enough protein will be available for cell function and regeneration, including those in the wound area. A lack of collagen diminishes the strength and tension of the wound, leading to the inability of the wound area to reconstruct itself. When the wound does not obtain enough collagen, it gets stuck in the inflammatory phase.
Optimal Amount of Protein
According to the Institute of Medicine (IOM), the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for protein for healthy adults is a minimum of 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. An adult with a wound, however, does not qualify as healthy, and it is recommended they consume between 1.2 and 1.5 g per kilogram of body weight. One kilogram is equal to 2.2 pounds. A 140-pound adult would require 76.3 to 95.4 grams of protein (140/2.2=63.6kg x 1.2g or 1.5g). For severe wounds, as much as 2 grams per kilogram of body weight may be advised.
Sources of Protein
Protein is either complete or incomplete. To obtain both types, you should eat a variety of animal and plant proteins. Animal proteins contain all the essential amino acids required by the body. Good sources of animal protein include red meats, poultry, fish, milk, cheese and eggs. While vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds are incomplete protein sources, they do contain large amounts of vitamins and minerals integral to wound healing.
References
- Ostomy Wound Management; "Nutritional Melting Pot: Understanding the Influence of Food, Culture and Religions on Nutrition Interventions for Wound Healing"; Nancy Collins, et al; May 2009
- RD411.com: Protein Basics
- Alternative Medicine Review; "Nutritional Support for Wound Healing"; Douglas MacKay and Alan Miller; 2003
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