A bruise occurs when the tiny blood vessels beneath the surface of your skin are ruptured by impact with a blunt object. It is characterized by reddish-purple discoloration caused by the accumulation of blood beneath your skin's surface. Bruises may also cause pain and swelling. Certain vitamins may reduce your risk of bruising and help speed the healing of bruises.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin --- your body stores it in fat tissues. It is responsible for producing blood platelets that coagulate blood and prevent excessive bleeding, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This may help stop the accumulation of blood beneath your skin that causes bruising. Asparagus, spinach, strawberries, avocados, kale, eggs and broccoli are rich sources of vitamin K.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is best known as an immune system enhancer that helps ward off the flu and the common cold. However, this vitamin may also help prevent and heal bruising. Vitamin C strengthens collagen, a component of skin, according to Alice Feinstein, author of "Prevention's Healing with Vitamins." Collagen surrounds the blood vessels in your skin and prevents them from rupturing. Increase your intake of vitamin C by eating foods such as citrus fruits, papayas, mangoes, pomegranates, broccoli, spinach and berries.
Vitamin E
Like vitamin C, vitamin E plays an important role in the production and maintenance of collagen, according to Balch. Vitamin E may also enhance blood circulation, which may improve delivery of nutrients and oxygen needed for the healing of bruises. This vitamin works with vitamin K to promote blood clotting; it is found in foods such as kale, peanuts, walnuts, eggs, sweet potatoes, kelp, flax seeds and pumpkin seeds.
Considerations
Although certain vitamins can help prevent or heal bruising, other factors may contribute to excessive bruising. For example, the use of blood-thinning prescription drugs may increase bruising, according to Balch. Smoking and excess body weight often increase the frequency and severity of bruising as well. This condition may also be affected by malabsorption disorders such as biliary atresia or Crohn's disease.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "Prevention's Healing with Vitamins"; Alice Feinstein; 1996
