The Relationship Between Diet and Wound Healing | Biodermis.com

After years of studying the relationships between diet and skin health, health experts and nutritionists now know that eating healthy and observing proper nutrition can benefit your skin and other areas of your life. It is commonly understood that a well-balanced diet can increase your energy levels, help you lose weight, strengthen your immune system, and even prolong your life. When it comes to diet and skin health, the list of benefits continues to grow. Not only does eating healthy promote collagen synthesis in your skin (the key to radiant, smooth skin), but a good diet can also assist in wound healing and decrease the risk of scarring after surgery or injury.

In this article, we will explore the relationship of dieting and the positive benefits it can have for your skin.

Some key nutritional staples

Protein

Every balanced diet should include protein; this includes beef, poultry, eggs, fish, beans and nuts. Protein is responsible for building and repairing muscle and connective tissues throughout the body. This nutrient is also a building block for muscles, bone, cartilage, and skin. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body that plays a significant role in skin strength and elasticity. When a person sustains a wound, collagen fibers help to repair the trauma, often resulting in a scar. When the body lacks protein, wound repair may be stunted, resulting in excessive scarring.

Fatty acids

The body needs healthy fats for energy and to maintain the normal functioning of cells in the body. Many foods contain fats, but it’s important to look out only for healthy fats like Omega-3. Omega-3s promote skin health by reducing inflammation and assisting wounds in forming blood clots to stop bleeding. A deficiency in Omega-3s is thought to cause dry skin, which can further impede wound healing. People who suffer from acne, psoriasis or other inflammatory conditions of the skin may benefit from a daily intake of Omega 3s. Some good sources of Omega-3s include fish, vegetable oil, walnuts, flax seeds, and leafy vegetables.

Antioxidants and vitamins

Antioxidants are chemical compounds that help protect cells from becoming damaged by unstable molecules. By consuming more antioxidants, you may lower the risk of infections and improve heart health. Certain antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E can protect your skin against free radicals and slow down signs of aging. An increase in these key vitamins also plays a vital role in reducing inflammation and promoting a quick and healthy wound-healing response. Many lotions and body washes on the market today contain derivatives of vitamins that are thought to promote antioxidant-related benefits for the skin. In addition to skincare products, many people take supplements daily to keep their antioxidant levels high. However, the best source of antioxidants comes from organic foods like fruits and vegetables.

Scars and wound healing

Proper diet and the right nutritional intake can only be good for the body and may also assist in the scarring and wound healing process. When our bodies receive the right balance of foods and vitamins, the cells which support wound healing will be healthier and more efficient. When our diet is poor, and we abuse the body through smoking and drinking, the wound healing process will be stunted.

To assist in the scarring process, medical-grade silicone gel can be used. Topical silicone gel is the gold standard in scar treatment as is backed by more than 30 years of clinical evidence to support its safety and efficacy. Unsightly scar types, such as keloids and hypertrophic scars, can be treated using silicone gel for scars. Silicone gel is safe for all skin types and can be purchased through your physician or online at Biodermis.com. 

Biodermis is an innovative market leader with 30 years of expertise in the medical silicone industry. Visit Biodermis.com today to explore a complete range of scar management and post-operative care solutions.