The Role of Nutrition During the Injury Healing Process
Nutrition plays an important role during someone’s recovery from a serious injury. Unfortunately, accidents happen, and they can lead to injuries. Sometimes, people suffer an injury while playing sports. In other situations, injuries might occur following an auto accident or a motorcycle collision. People can even get hurt by falling down the stairs, sliding on a wet floor, or by slipping on the sidewalk. Regardless of the cause, everyone wants to make a full and quick recovery following a serious accident. In order to help this process along, it is vital for everyone to think about their nutrition.
While most people learn about healthy eating habits as a child, many individuals overlook the importance of nutrition when they recover from an injury. There are several stages involved in the recovery process. Each stage has its own precise nutritional requirements that everyone should remember.
The First Injury Stage is Inflammation
The first stage in the injury recovery process is called inflammation. When the body becomes inflamed, it is signaling that a repair process is needed. Therefore, inflammation is critical because it mobilizes the cells that are involved in repairing an injured body part, such as a femur fracture. On the other hand, too much inflammation can actually cause additional damage to an already injured arm or leg. Some of the signs of inflammation include discomfort, swelling, redness, and warmth.
Anti-inflammatory nutrition is important during the first stage to limit damage to an injured body part. Some examples of anti-inflammatory foods include olive oil, fish oil, nuts, seeds, fish, and flax. It is just as important for people to avoid foods that can increase inflammation. Examples of foods to avoid are processed meats, saturated fat, trans fats, and vegetable oil. Certain herbs and spices, such as garlic and turmeric, can also be used to manage inflammation. Limiting inflammation will help someone recover from a traumatic injury more quickly.
Nutrition for the Second Stage: Proliferation
The second stage of injury recovery is called proliferation. During this stage, the body is going through several important processes. First, the damaged tissue is removed. Then, new blood supply is established that will bring fresh oxygen and nutrients to the injury location. These nutrients are important for building a new scaffold and for growing new cells. Finally, temporary support tissues start to develop in this stage.
During this stage, a lot of growth is taking place. Therefore, it is important for everyone to consume enough nutrition to support this process. Individuals should incorporate enough protein into their diet to support the growth of muscles, ligaments, and tendons. A diverse mix of fruits and vegetables are needed to ensure the body has enough vitamins and minerals to support crucial enzymes. Individuals should try to avoid consuming empty calories, such as simple sugars, which don’t have any nutritional value. Proper nutritional building blocks are important during the proliferation stage.
The Third Stage: Remodeling Completes the Healing Process
The last stage of the healing process is called remodeling. During this stage, the temporary tissue is removed. Then, stronger, functional, permanent tissue takes its place. Depending on the severity of the injury, this process can take a long time. Individuals might regain function in their injured body part; however, restoring strength and flexibility can take some time.
When someone enters the remodeling stage, protein consumption is still going to play a major role. Focusing on eggs and meat is important; however, some individuals might need to take supplements, such as protein shakes. Those who are engaged in a physical therapy program will also want to consume carbs before and after their workouts. This is important for ensuring the body has the energy necessary to engage in the PT program to the fullest. Oats, rice, and quinoa are good sources of healthy carbs. Finally, people also need to make sure they are getting an adequate amount of vitamins and minerals. These are crucial for allowing enzymes to complete the remodeling process following a serious injury.
Orangevale Personal Injury Lawyers
I’m Ed Smith, an Orangevale Personal Injury Lawyer. Nutrition plays a major role as someone recovers from a serious injury. Those who have suffered an injury due to the negligence of another person or entity should contact me at (800) 404-5400 or (916) 921-6400 to receive free, friendly legal guidance and advice.
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