Nutrition in Wound Healing
Resource to help raise awareness of the role of nutrition in wound healing
Nutrients - Fluid
Water is a chemical compound consisting of one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms (Anderson, Keith, Novak and Elliot, 2002). It is the main constituent of the body, with approximately 45 litres being present in the average person.
It is constantly being lost through urine, faecal matter, sweat, and through the lungs during breathing. In order to balance this, fluid must be consumed. (Wrong, 1993)
Foods high in Fluid
The average person consumes just less than half of their fluid intake through drinking liquids. The remainder of the fluid intake comprises of water absorbed from solid foods, with a small amount of water being gained through chemical reactions within the body (Wrong, 1993).
Whilst any drink contains water, the individual should be aware that drinks such as alcohol or those containing caffeine have a diuretic effect and so will not necessarily maintain hydration (Kemp, 2001).
Fluids Role in the body
Water is vital to life and has a number of roles within the body. These include:
- Excretion of waste and by-products.
- Thermoregulation.
- Allow the exchange and transportation of nutrients and gases.
- Provides substance and form to cells.
Due to the importance of fluid within the body, individuals should be encouraged to ensure an appropriate intake of fluid, which Kemp (2001) suggests is approximately 2 litres.
However for some people, fluid intake should be less than as recommended above. Can you think of any occasions when intake should be restricted. Discuss this with your mentor.
Signs of Fluid deficiency / overdose
Water imbalance tends to create an imbalance of electrolytes as well. Due to this, water imbalance can cause a number of detrimental effects upon the body.
| Water depletion can lead to: | Excess fluid can lead to: |
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(Kemp, 2001, McLaren, 1992, Wrong, 1993)
Fluid overload can occur due to a number reasons. One reason could be when a post-operative patient is given high amounts of IV fluids. Can you think of any other reasons why the body may have an excess of water?
