Dietary advice for wound care

Sometimes your diet does not provide you with the nourishment you need on a daily basis and pressure sores or leg ulcers can develop. These are more likely to heal quicker if you are well nourished. Eating the right food groups will encourage your skin to heal alongside any medication you may receive.

It is important to eat a varied diet that is specifically high in protein, vitamins and minerals. Using the information provided in this booklet, you will be able to ensure your diet includes these important food groups.

Whether you are underweight or overweight, this booklet will give you examples and portion sizes of food or drink which promote wound healing.

This booklet has been provided to you by your nurse or healthcare professional as they feel you need some extra support in improving your skin condition.

The information in this booklet has been developed by registered dietitians at Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust.

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Protein is essential in wound healing so it is important to aim for at least two portions per day. For example:

• a few slices of meat, 1 chicken breast, half a can of beans or added pulses to vegetable dishes
• a fillet or half a tin of fish, for example, cod, salmon or sardines
• half a pint of milk
• 1 yogurt
• 1 handful of nuts as a snack

Vitamins and minerals

Fruit and vegetables contain vitamin C which is needed for wound healing. This includes dried, tinned, fresh and frozen fruit and vegetables. Try to aim for at least three to five portions per day. For example:

• a glass of fresh fruit juice
• fruits, for example, berries, apricots, pineapple, banana, apple, orange, etc.
• vegetables, for example, peas, carrot, broccoli, sweetcorn, lettuce, cucumber, etc.

Zinc is a mineral which is also important for wound healing. Try to have 1 serving of zinc-containing foods per day such as:

• a few slices of meat, for example, beef, pork or lamb
• 2 eggs (no more than 6 per week)
• 1 serving of baked beans
• 2 slices of bread

Fluid

If you are dehydrated you are twice as likely to develop pressure sores, therefore having enough to drink on a daily basis is very important for wound healing and also your general health.

Try to have at least 6 to 8 glasses (1500ml to 2000 ml) of fluid on a daily basis. All drinks except alcohol counts as fluid intake.

As mentioned previously try to have:

• half a pint of milk per day
• 1 glass of fresh fruit juice per day

Energy (calories)

What if I am underweight?

It is important to add extra calories where you can and choose food and drinks high in fat and sugar. Even if you have a small appetite, you can add extra calories to foods. Your healthcare professional should have provided you with advice on food fortification, high calorie drinks and snacks.

What if I am overweight?

If you are overweight try to choose foods low in fat and calories, and increase your intake of fruit and vegetables.

What if I have diabetes?

Good blood glucose control will help wound healing. You can have a moderate amount of sugar-containing foods as part of your diet but speak to your GP or diabetes nurse for more information.

Document control

• Document reference: DP7060/07.17.
• Date reviewed: April 2017.

Page last reviewed: November 29, 2024
Next review due: November 29, 2025