Nutrients and wound healing: still searching for the magic bullet

Nutr Clin Pract. 2005 Jun;20(3):331-47. doi: 10.1177/0115426505020003331.

Abstract

Clinicians in nearly all practice areas are confronted with the challenges associated with delayed and impaired wound healing. Although nutrition plays a critical role in the healing process, controversy exists regarding the optimal nutrition regimen. This article reviews literature related to nutrition interventions that facilitate wound healing. The limitations of the research that forms the scientific basis of many nutrition recommendations are also examined. The limited availability of rigorously performed clinical studies to develop evidence-based guidelines for nutrition support in wound care emphasizes the need for further research and underscores the importance of individualizing the nutrition care plan for each patient.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Evidence-Based Medicine
  • Humans
  • Nutritional Requirements*
  • Nutritional Support*
  • Practice Guidelines as Topic
  • Risk Factors
  • Wound Healing / physiology*
  • Wounds and Injuries* / complications
  • Wounds and Injuries* / metabolism
  • Wounds and Injuries* / therapy