Nutrition Education Los Angeles County

Protein is the most important nutrient for wound repair. It helps your body make new skin
and tissue. Adults with wounds may need about 1.2–1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of
body weight daily, as tolerated.

Good sources:

• Lean meats (chicken, turkey, beef, pork)
• Fish and seafood
• Eggs
• Dairy (milk, yogurt, cheese)
• Beans, lentils, tofu
• Collagen hydrolyzed supplements (easy to absorb)

Choose low-sugar protein supplements to avoid gastric upset and help manage blood
sugar. If swallowing is difficult, use pureed protein foods or protein drinks. A thickener
can be added for safety.

• Vitamin C: Helps with collagen formation and immune function (found in citrus,
  berries, peppers)
• Zinc: Supports skin repair and immune health (found in meat, shellfish, nuts, seeds)
• Vitamin D3: Supports bone and tissue health (found in fortified dairy, fatty fish, or
  supplements)

Fiber keeps your digestion healthy, especially if you are eating more protein. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, this helps deliver nutrients to your wound and flush out waste.

Good sources of fiber:

• Whole grains
• Fruits and vegetables
• Beans and lentils

If swallowing is difficult:

• Use thickened liquids to prevent choking
• Try pureed protein-rich meals
• Use collagen or protein powders in soft foods or drinks

For wounds like pressure ulcers, it’s important to relieve pressure on the wound. Change positions at least every 2 hours to improve blood flow and speed healing.

Family and Wound Care Solutions provides wound care and nutrition support at our Pasadena and Paramount clinics and through mobile visits in homes and facilities across California.

Amino acids are the building blocks of protein and play a key role in wound healing. They help the body make collagen, repair tissue, and strengthen the immune system. Certain amino acids such as arginine and glutamine are especially important for healing. These can be taken as supplements in powder or pill form, often mixed into drinks or soft foods. They are especially useful for patients who have higher protein needs or difficulty meeting their protein goals through food alone.

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that support a healthy gut. A healthy digestive system helps the body absorb nutrients more effectively, which is important for wound healing. Probiotics may also help reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. They can be found in foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi, or taken as supplements in capsule or powder form. Including probiotics as part of your nutrition plan can improve nutrient absorption and overall health during the healing process.

Minerals are essential nutrients that help the body perform vital functions during the
healing process. Key minerals for wound healing include:

• Zinc: Supports skin repair, immune function, and collagen production.
• Iron: Helps deliver oxygen to tissues for faster healing.
• Magnesium: Supports protein synthesis and reduces inflammation.
• Copper: Plays a role in collagen cross-linking and tissue strength.

If it’s hard to get enough minerals through food alone, mineral supplements are available in pill, capsule, or liquid form. These can be used as part of a healing plan but should be taken under the guidance of a healthcare provider to avoid excessive intake.