Wound care
Nutrition for Wound Healing
Protein, vitamins and fluids help wounds heal faster. Simple ways to eat for recovery, even when your appetite is low.
Protein at every meal
Aim for a palm-sized serving of protein at each meal, plus a protein-rich snack:
- Eggs, Greek yogurt, cottage cheese, milk
- Chicken, turkey, fish, lean meat
- Beans, lentils, tofu, nuts and nut butter
- Protein shakes when appetite is low
Key vitamins and minerals
- Vitamin C: citrus, berries, peppers, broccoli
- Zinc: meat, shellfish, beans, seeds, whole grains
- Vitamin A: carrots, sweet potato, spinach, eggs
- Iron: red meat, beans, fortified cereals, leafy greens
When appetite is low
- Eat small meals and snacks every 2 to 3 hours.
- Choose nutrient-dense foods: smoothies with yogurt, eggs, nut butter.
- Add extra calories with olive oil, cheese or avocado.
- Drink fluids between meals so you do not fill up.
- Consider an oral nutrition supplement.
How we can help
We check for nutrition problems that slow healing, such as low protein, iron or vitamin D, and adjust diabetes care if blood sugar is high. Our advanced wound care team builds nutrition into every wound plan. See also wound healing stages.
Questions people ask
How much protein do I need to heal a wound?
Many people with wounds need around 1.25 to 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight a day, unless kidney disease limits protein. We will advise based on your health.
Do vitamin supplements speed healing?
Only if you are low. A balanced diet or a daily multivitamin covers most needs.
Does drinking water help wounds heal?
Yes. Dehydration reduces blood flow and slows healing.
Talk it through with Lydia
Want to heal faster? Let us look at nutrition as part of your wound plan. See a board-certified nurse practitioner virtually anywhere in Virginia, in our Woodbridge office, or straight to your front door in much of Northern Virginia.
Visits start at $85, and every membership comes with a 30-day trial.
Prefer to ask first? Text us at (571) 402-2102 or message us on WhatsApp.
