Don’t Just Treat the Wound — Feed the Healing
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As we get older, our bodies go through natural changes that affect how quickly we recover from illness or injury. One of the most common challenges among seniors is slow wound healing — whether it’s from a minor cut, a pressure sore, or a surgical procedure. But here’s the good news: eating well, and especially eating enough protein, can make a big difference.
Why Are Seniors More Prone to Wounds?
Ageing affects skin thickness, blood circulation, and the body’s ability to regenerate tissues. On top of that, conditions like diabetes, poor nutrition, or limited mobility can further increase the risk of skin breakdown and delayed healing.
But one factor that’s often overlooked? Diet — particularly protein intake.
How Protein Supports Wound Healing
Protein is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks your body needs to repair tissue, build new skin cells, and fight infections. Without enough protein, the healing process slows down significantly.
Here’s what protein does for wound healing:
- Promotes new tissue growth and skin repair
- Supports immune function to prevent infections
- Helps maintain muscle strength, which supports mobility and reduces pressure sores
- Improves overall energy levels, helping seniors stay active and engaged
A review published in Advances in Wound Care highlights that protein deficiency is directly associated with delayed wound healing and poor outcomes for wound care patients【1】. Another study in the Journal of Wound Carerecommends 15–20% of total energy intake from protein to support optimal healing in older adults【2】.
How Much Protein Do Seniors Need?
While general adult recommendations are around 0.8g of protein per kg of body weight, research suggests that older adults may need more — closer to 1.2 to 1.5g per kg of body weight — especially when dealing with wounds or other health conditions【3】.
For example:
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A 60kg elderly person may need 72g to 90g of protein per day for optimal recovery if healing from a wound.
Eating 15–20g of protein per meal is a good starting point, as the body can only absorb so much protein at one time.
Easy Protein-Rich Foods for Faster Healing
Here are some senior-friendly, easy-to-enjoy protein options:
- Eggs
- Fish
- Chicken
- Tofu or soft bean curd
- Dairy products like yoghurt, milk, or cheese
How GentleFoods® Makes Eating Well Easier for Seniors
At GentleFoods®, we understand that chewing and swallowing can become difficult for some seniors, but good nutrition is still essential — especially when it comes to healing. Our range of protein-rich, texture-modified meals makes it easier for older adults to meet their nutritional needs without compromising on taste or enjoyment.
💪 Protein-Packed GentleFoods® Options:
- Chicken Bento
- Fish Bento
- Salmon Bento
- High-Protein Soups: Mushroom, Pumpkin, and Broccoli
- High-Protein Rice Porridge in IDDSI L4,5,6
Eating well can mean better healing, more energy, stronger muscles, and greater mobility — helping seniors get back on their feet faster and enjoy life to the fullest.
👉 Explore our range of soft, protein-rich meals designed with seniors in mind.
References:
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Stechmiller JK. (2010). Understanding the role of nutrition and wound healing. Advances in Wound Care, 1(4), 137–138. DOI:10.1089/wound.2011.0304
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Cereda E, et al. (2015). Nutrition in wound care: an evidence-based approach. Journal of Wound Care, 24(7), 322–330. DOI:10.12968/jowc.2015.24.7.322
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Bauer J, et al. (2013). Evidence-based recommendations for optimal dietary protein intake in older people: a position paper from the PROT-AGE Study Group. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 14(8), 542–559. DOI:10.1016/j.jamda.2013.05.021
