Nutrition is a crucial factor often overlooked in treating diabetic foot ulcers. The wound needs "building materials" to create new tissue, and without adequate nutrition, the wound remains stagnant even with the best dressings.
Essential Nutrients for Healing:
- Protein: Most important element — ulcer patients need 1.25-1.5 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight daily. Sources: chicken, fish, eggs, labneh, chickpeas, lentils.
- Vitamin C: Essential for collagen formation (the wound's structural framework). 500mg daily. Sources: oranges, peppers, strawberries.
- Zinc: Supports cell division and immune system. 15-30mg daily. Sources: red meat, pumpkin seeds, whole grains.
- Iron: Carries oxygen to the wound. Anemia significantly slows healing.
- Vitamin A: Supports new skin cell growth and immunity.
- Adequate calories: The body needs an additional 15-20% energy during healing.
The Challenge with Diabetic Patients:
The diabetic diet may reduce protein and calories. We need a precise balance between blood sugar control and adequate nutrition.
At BEIT TARIQ Center, we assess every patient's nutritional status and adjust the diet to support healing.