10 January 2014
According to a new US study, increased intakes of micronutrients, such as beta-carotene and vitamin C and D, are recommended for trauma patients with wound-healing problems, as they seem to have higher nutrient requirements and increased oxidative stress.
The observational study measured blood concentrations of several micronutrients as well as oxidative stress and inflammation markers in 44 trauma patients with disorders in wound healing (1). The study results showed that the majority of patients showed micronutrient levels below the recommended range: 86% of patients had insufficient levels of beta-carotene, 71% had low levels of selenium, 64% of vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and 59% of vitamin D. In addition, plasma antioxidant capacity was decreased, indicating elevated levels of oxidative stress.
The researchers commented that trauma patients with problems in wound healing frequently suffer from reduced plasma concentrations of several micronutrients probably due to inflammation, increased require- ment of micronutrients and oxidative burden. Thus, adequate nutritional measures are strongly recommend- ed to trauma patients. An insufficient intake of micronutrients may lead to intra-/extracellular deficiencies resulting in an imbalance of pro- and antioxidants, which exerts cytotoxic effects and, consequently, may impair wound healing. In addition, it is known that several vitamins and trace elements, such as vitamins A, C and D and zinc, are involved in collagen synthesis and cell division, which are important for the wound-healing process. Disorders in wound healing are frequently observed post-surgically in patients with vascular diseases and soft tissue trauma.
6 February 2013
Regular high doses of vitamin D3 can reduce symptoms of respiratory tract infections and antibiotic consumption among patients with an increased frequency of infections, suggest a new Swedish study.
29 June 2012
According to a new Iranian study, vitamin C and E supplements may protect against increased oxidative stress in women taking oral contraceptives.
1 August 2012
Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids serve as indispensable structural components of cellular membranes and are important for normal brain and eye development. As a foetus’ intake of fatty acids is mainly dependent on the intake of the expectant mother, there has been growing concern that the low intake of omega-3 fatty acids in Western nations, particularly of DHA, may place infants at risk of deficiency during the critical early period of neurological development.
