If you have a hard-to-heal wound, it is important to consume the right proportion of nutrients. These nutrients, when included in a balanced diet, play a part in helping with wound healing. Remember, it's important to speak to your healthcare provider about your specific nutritional needs.
Protein
Protein is a crucial part of any balanced diet, but especially when managing a wound. For example, a 150-pound person with a wound needs about 102 grams of protein a day. Consuming extra protein provides additional energy levels and helps build muscle mass, as well as provides essential components for wound healing. Hydrolyzed proteins are especially helpful as they are broken down and absorbed faster by the body.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and works to decrease the amount of harmful antioxidants. Vitamin C also helps to boost the immune system and promotes collagen to form as part of tissue growth.
Zinc
A mineral that assists in the production of protein and collagen, zinc works together with the enzymes in our body to help grow skin cells and boost the immune system.
Arginine
Arginine is an amino acid that is essential to the immune system during a time of injury or stress on the body. Derived from citrulline, it produces a molecule called nitric oxide that increases blood flow and oxygen delivery to a wound—helping promote collagen development and overall healing.
Pro-Stat® AWC (Advanced Wound Care) is a sugar-free, ready-to-drink medical food that contains 17 grams of protein, plus added arginine, zinc, vitamin C and citrulline to help manage advanced wounds.