Wound healing involves a variety of factors. From proper wound dressing to the application of topical creams and more, it’s important to follow doctor’s orders to ensure the fastest and most complete wound healing.
While patients may not think about it often, wellness and nutrition are also very important factors in the process of wound healing. Bandages and medicine are vital, but without good nutrition and wellness, a patient can struggle to heal quickly and fully. With proper care of the whole body, a patient can raise their chances of full recovery.
Nutrition and Wound Healing
Wounds require proper nutrition to heal quickly and completely. When the skin breaks down and a wound is open, the body will use what it has available to help heal itself. This means that the body will be pulling nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from the body to close up the wound and replace the torn tissue.
A lot goes into proper nutrition, especially for those who are currently dealing with a wound. Higher levels of certain nutrients may be needed to aid in the healing process. Here are a few things to keep in mind when healing from a wound injury:
- Protein is essential to wound healing. Ample protein levels in the body will help collagen development, aiding in the rebuilding of skin tissue at the wound site.
- Fats are also important for the wound-healing process. When the body has plenty of fat, it won’t rely on protein for energy and can use the saved protein for healing the wound.
- Vitamin A assists the body by increasing the inflammatory response. This response speeds up collagen synthesis at the wound site.
- Vitamin C is another essential vitamin. It helps with the formation of new blood vessels so blood can easily travel to and from the site of a wound.
- Iron provides oxygen to the site of a wound. This oxygen helps the blood to heal the wound more quickly and thoroughly.
- Zinc works with protein and amino acids to aid in collagen synthesis during wound healing. A patient can increase their zinc intake to assist with their wound healing and they can use zinc-oxide-rich dressing tapes like Hy-Tape to help protect the skin.
- Staying hydrated may be the most important task of all when dealing with a wound. Drinking ample water keeps the body hydrated, keeps the skin soft and elastic, and helps prevent cracks and cuts in the skin as it heals.
Obtaining these nutrients from the right sources can also make the healing process go more smoothly. Whole-grain wheat, lean meats, and full-cream dairy products can provide the best type of nutrients for the body. A variety of foods and drinks will also help the body receive what it needs to properly heal a wound. Finally, small, frequent snacking is better than eating large meals, as it provides the body with a consistent source of nutrients.
Wellness and Wound Healing
Beyond proper nutrition, general wellness can also be helpful for those dealing with wounds. Whether healing from a single wound, multiple wounds, or chronic wounds, wellness of the entire body will help protect the skin and rebuild tissue where needed. Here are a few wellness tips for healing from a wound:
- Get ample rest – The body needs rest every day, especially when there is an ailment of any kind. Lack of rest can lead to high levels of pro-inflammatory proteins that can slow the healing process.
- Practice careful exercise – While it’s important to avoid excessive strain, careful exercise is a good idea when healing from a wound. Proper exercise can increase blood flow around the body and at the wound site, helping promote tissue development.
- Eat more vegetables – Vegetables are full of high-quality nutrients, many of which aid in the healing process. Adding more vegetables to the diet can only be helpful.
- Avoid smoking – For those who smoke, avoiding the practice can make a big difference in the wound healing process. Smoking tightens blood vessels and restricts nutrients from getting to the wound.
Even just one of these tips can make a big difference when dealing with a wound problem. Try considering all of them for the best results.
Moist Wound Healing
Along with proper nutrition and wellness, some wounds benefit from moist wound healing. This is when the wound dressing absorbs and holds in some moisture. Studies have shown that a moist environment can lower the chances of an infection, prevent tissue dehydration, and lead to less scar tissue.
Moist wound healing requires proper wound dressing tape, and Hy-Tape is a top choice for the job. Hy-Tape is waterproof, so it can help keep outside water off the wound while sealing in a moist environment if needed. The tape is very pliable and able to move comfortably with the patient. It also removes easily when it’s time for a new wound dressing. Hy-Tape also includes zinc oxide which can protect the skin around the wound from becoming damaged or dry.
No matter your wound, securing the dressing with Hy-Tape can be beneficial in the long run. Speak with us today to learn more about our tape and how it can help accelerate the wound-healing process for yourself or your patients.
More on Moist Wound Healing
Read:
- Wound Bed Preparation and Assessment
- Lower Extremity Wounds: Wound Dressings Strategies in Managing Venous, Arterial, and Diabetic Ulcers
- Zinc Oxide Benefits and Wound Dressings
- How to Avoid Skin Tears and Properly Dress Wounds for Long Term Patients
- Wound Care at Home
- Bariatric Surgery Recovery and Wound Care