Eating Well – For Wound Healing
Nutrition and Dietetics Service
We’re here to help.
Last updated: May 2026
Next review: May 2028
Supporting Your Body’s Recovery
Good nutrition plays an important role in wound healing. When your body is repairing damaged skin and tissue, it needs extra protein, energy, vitamins, minerals, and fluids. Eating well can help wounds heal more effectively and reduce the risk of complications.
Why Nutrition Matters
When you have a wound, your body works harder to repair damaged tissue.
Without enough nutrition, wound healing may be slower and you may experience:
- Unplanned weight loss
- Muscle weakness
- Reduced energy levels
- Increased risk of infection
- Delayed healing
Good nutrition helps support tissue repair, strength, and recovery.
Protein Helps Build New Tissue
Protein is one of the most important nutrients for wound healing.
Try to include a source of protein with every meal.
Good Sources of Protein
- Meat
- Fish
- Eggs
- Milk and dairy alternatives
- Cheese
- Nuts and seeds
- Beans and pulses
- Quorn and soya products
Including protein-rich foods regularly can help your body repair and rebuild tissue.
Iron Supports Healing
Iron helps carry oxygen around the body and supports wound healing.
Iron-Rich Foods
- Red meat
- Liver and kidney
- Eggs
- Beans and pulses
- Fortified breakfast cereals
- Green leafy vegetables
- Dried fruit
For best absorption, avoid tea and coffee around mealtimes where possible.
Vitamin C and Zinc
Vitamin C and zinc are important for healthy skin and tissue repair.
Vitamin C Sources
- Oranges
- Kiwis
- Strawberries
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Fruit juice
Zinc Sources
- Eggs
- Meat
- Fish
- Wholegrain cereals
- Milk and dairy foods
- Beans
- Green leafy vegetables
Eating a variety of foods can help provide these important nutrients.
Stay Hydrated
Hydration is essential for healthy skin and wound healing.
Aim for approximately:
6–8 glasses (1500–2000ml) of fluid each day
unless advised otherwise by a healthcare professional.
Helpful choices include:
- Water
- Milk
- Tea and coffee
- Squash
- Nourishing drinks
Keeping a drink nearby and sipping regularly can help maintain hydration.
Meal and Snack Ideas
Main Meals
- Cottage pie with vegetables
- Fish pie and peas
- Chicken curry with rice
- Chilli with rice
- Lasagne with salad
Sandwich Fillings
- Meat
- Fish
- Egg
- Cheese
- Peanut butter
- Hummus
- Falafel
Snacks
- Yoghurt
- Hummus and breadsticks
- Nuts
- Cheese and biscuits
- Sausage rolls
- Scotch eggs
Nourishing Desserts and Drinks
Desserts
- Rice pudding
- Semolina
- Fruit crumble and custard
- Trifle
- Mousse
- Yoghurt
Nourishing Drinks
- Milkshakes
- Smoothies
- Hot chocolate
- Milky coffee
- Malted drinks
These can be useful if you need additional calories and protein to support healing.
Example Daily Routine
A balanced day may include:
Breakfast
- Cereal with milk
- Glass of fruit juice
Mid-Morning Snack
- Yoghurt or nuts
Lunch
- Egg or hummus sandwich
Afternoon Snack
- Cheese and biscuits with grapes
Evening Meal
- Meat, chicken, lentil, or bean-based meal
Dessert or Evening Drink
- Fruit crumble and custard
- Milky drink
When To Seek Further Support
If your wound is not healing, your appetite remains poor, or you are losing weight, speak to your healthcare professional.
Additional support from a dietitian or nutritional supplements may be recommended if needed.
Further Information Available
This webpage provides a summary of nutritional advice to support wound healing.
The full PDF includes:
- Protein guidance
- Iron, vitamin C and zinc advice
- Hydration recommendations
- Meal ideas
- Snack suggestions
- Nourishing drinks
- Example meal plans
- Additional support information
For complete guidance, please download the full PDF resource.
