Nutrition for Wound Healing

Balanced nutrition, plenty of fluids and daily exercise are important for keeping skin healthy and healing wounds. 

For balanced nutrition

• Eat three meals and one to two snacks a day.
• Limit processed or pre-packaged meals to control added sodium and fat.
• Choose foods from each of the food groups: 
• Whole-grain breads and cereals
  • 5-7 ounces per day 
• Fresh, frozen or canned vegetables and fruit in a rainbow of colors
  • 2-3 cups of each per day 
  • Focus on whole fruits and vegetables (apple vs. applesauce or juice) for added nutrition and fiber
  • Look for "low-sodium" and "no added sugar" 
  • Limit juice to no more than 1 cup per day
• Dairy including low-fat or fat-free milk, yogurt, pudding, cheese
  • 2-3 cups per day 
• Lean or low-fat protein sources such as eggs, beans, loin or round cuts of meats, fish, soy, nuts and seeds
  • Bake, broil or grill whenever possible 
  • Avoid high fat and high salt proteins such as bacon, sausage, ham, processed meat
  • 5-7 ounces per day

Stay well hydrated

• Drink plenty of fluids including water, broth-based soups, juice, milk, tea and coffee.
• Avoid caffeine, high-calorie and/or sweetened beverages
• 8-12 glasses per day; half plain water

Stay active

• Exercise is important to increase blood flow and promote wound healing.
• Take mini-walks (5-10 minutes) every couple of hours.
• If unable to walk, make sure to move in your chair or bed to increase blood flow.
• Before starting, talk with your doctor about what physical activity is safe for you to do.