Nutrition Strategies
When you’re caring for a wound at home, many factors influence how well and how fast that wound heals. Most people understand the importance of a clean environment—but not everyone realizes how essential nutrition is. What you eat plays a major role in recovery. At Accelerated Wound Care (AWC), we bring expert wound services right to your door—and that includes helping you understand the power of proper nutrition. Whether you’re healing from surgery, an ulcer, or a chronic wound, giving your body the right fuel can make a significant difference.
The Importance of Wound Care Nutrition
Poor nutrition can slow healing, increase infection risk, and lead to complications. To heal properly, your body needs energy, protein, and essential nutrients that support new tissue growth. Wound healing demands extra collagen and elastin production—processes that require a steady supply of calories, vitamins, and minerals. AWC patients are guided not only in clinical care but also in practical nutritional support to speed recovery and improve results.
The Best Diet for Wound Recovery
A well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet supports each stage of the healing process. Whole foods, lean proteins, and fresh produce should form the core of your recovery meal plan. We recommend avoiding excess sugar and highly processed items. Instead, build your plate around foods that naturally reduce inflammation and provide immune support. These include:
Whole grains
Leafy greens and brightly colored vegetables
Whole fruits (especially citrus and berries)
High-fiber foods like legumes and oats
Lean proteins like chicken, eggs, fish, and tofu
Hydrating options like cucumber, watermelon, and broth-based soups
Vitamins for Wound Healing
Specific vitamins and minerals play a major role in the wound healing process. If your diet lacks any of the following nutrients, healing can slow down or even stall. AWC encourages patients to talk to our team or their primary doctor about adding more of the following:
Vitamin C– Boosts collagen production and strengthens immune response. Found in citrus fruits, strawberries, peppers, and leafy greens.
Vitamin A– Promotes cell regeneration and supports skin repair. Found in sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, dairy, and eggs.
Zinc– Supports tissue growth and wound closure. Found in red meat, poultry, shellfish, and seeds.
Iron– Improves oxygen delivery to the wound site. Found in red meat, lentils, fortified cereals, and dark leafy greens.
Protein & Wound Healing
Protein is the foundation of tissue repair. Your body uses it to rebuild skin, produce new blood vessels, and strengthen immune function. If you aren’t getting enough protein, healing slows. Tips to increase your intake:
Eat protein-first at every meal.
Snack on nuts, seeds, or protein bars.
Drink milk, protein shakes, or yogurt-based smoothies.
Add lean meats, beans, and tofu to soups or salads.
Choose high-protein snacks like cottage cheese or hard-boiled eggs.
Antioxidants for Faster Healing
Antioxidants help reduce inflammation, neutralize damaging free radicals, and support immune function. When combined with proper nutrition, they can speed up healing and lower the risk of complications. Top choices include:
Vitamin E (nuts, seeds, spinach)
Vitamin C (citrus, kiwi, peppers)
Rutin (apples, buckwheat)
Bromelain (pineapple)
Grape seed extract (available as a supplement)
Wound Healing Supplements
If you’re unable to meet your nutritional needs through food alone, supplements may help. Always consult with your provider before beginning a new regimen. AWC may recommend the following based on your condition:
Multivitamins– Covers general deficiencies in vitamins and minerals that support healing.
Oral Nutrition Supplements– Ready-to-drink shakes or powders that provide protein, calories, and key nutrients.
Protein Powders– Useful for patients who can’t consume enough protein through food. Mix into smoothies or oatmeal.
Trusted Mobile Wound Care, Right at Your Door
Skip the clinic — let expert care come to you. Browse our network of certified wound care specialists and connect with a provider near you for professional treatment in the comfort of your home.
Accelerated Wound Care – Serving the Chicagoland Area
Phone: (844) 292-5708
Fax: (244) 361-2616
Email: Info@AWCIllinois.com
2720 S. River Rd., Suite 256
Des Plaines, IL, 60018