Which Natural Health Supplements Do Doctors Recommend to Boost Healing?

When the body undergoes trauma from surgery, injury or a disease related illness, balanced nutrition is critical to facilitate the healing process. However, there are certain natural health supplements that are often recommended by doctors that can help speed wound healing, minimize the negative impact of surgery and help strengthen the body in the case of disease.

Before purchasing any natural health supplement, consumers are advised to research their manufacturer of choice to make sure that standards of quality and efficacy are being met.

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Here are five natural health supplements that consumers often choose to boost healing:

1. Vitamin C: According to WebMD, "Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is required for the synthesis of collagen. It is also a highly effective antioxidant protecting cells from damage by free radicals. Studies have shown that the vitamin can help speed the healing process of wounds."

2. Zinc: Doctors sometimes recommend that patients increase their zinc intake before surgery. According to Natural News, this is because the mineral, "Reduces wound healing time, rapidly reduces wound size, and bolsters immune function to help ward off infection. Topical zinc, such as calamine lotion, also inhibits bacteria growth on the surface of skin, helping to prevent infection."

3. Vitamin A: This fat-soluble vitamin plays a role in cell reproduction and may facilitate the healing of wounds. "Nutritional deficiencies can impede wound healing, and several nutritional factors required for wound repair may improve healing time and wound outcome. Vitamin A is required for epithelial and bone formation, cellular differentiation, and immune function," reports the National Institutes of Health.

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4. Bromelain: This natural health supplement is a protein-digesting enzyme most commonly found in pineapple. It is often used to facilitate digestion but it also has wound healing properties, which have earned it the endorsement of the alternative health community. According to the Global Healing Center, "Research shows that the bromelain enzyme may lower swelling, stop bruising, speed up healing time, and reduce discomfort in individuals following surgical procedures."

5. Arginine: One of the 26 essential amino acids (protein-building blocks) that the body needs, Arginine can increase local wound immune function. According to the Science of Natural Health, "Some patients experience arginine deficiencies following injury, surgery, or during cancer. The result is a dysfunction of the immune system, that presumably leaves patients vulnerable to illness." Supplementing with arginine can reduce infection and allow for a shorter stay in the hospital, which is also "correlated with lower medical costs."

This article is for information only and is not intended as medical advice. Talk with your doctor about your specific health and medical needs.

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