Abstract
Wound healing is a complex and energy-demanding process. The relationship between
nutrition and wound healing has been recognized for many centuries. Several studies
have indicated that nutritional deficiencies are more prevalent among patients with
chronic wounds. Malnutrition may alter the inflammatory response, collagen synthesis,
and wound tensile strength, all of which are crucial for wound healing. Although the
specific role of nutrition and supplementation in wound care remains uncertain, it
is necessary to identify and correct nutritional imbalances to avoid any potential
deterioration of the healing process. It is also important to recognize the differences
in pathophysiology between acute and chronic wounds. A burn, surgical, or a traumatic
wound is different from a diabetic foot ulcer, which is different from a pressure
ulcer. Chronic wounds are more prevalent in the aging population, and patients often
have underlying comorbidities, such as diabetes mellitus, peripheral vascular disease,
connective tissue disease, or other systemic illnesses that may alter energy metabolism
and contribute to impaired healing. Management approaches to acute wound care may
not apply universally to chronic wounds. In this review, we discuss the available
data and possible roles for nutrition in wound healing.
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Published online: October 25, 2021
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