Vitamin A

While many vitamins and minerals have been shown to increase various types of collagen, the material needed to create strength across an incision, studies have shown that vitamin A is more important in creation of the extracellular matrix. The extracellular matrix is a term used to describe the surrounding components of tissue that give support.

Vitamin A has also been shown important for formation of bone, so supplementation is thought to improve bone healing. It also plays a role in immune functioning, helping the body prevent infection.*

Sources:

Polcz ME, Barbul A. The Role of Vitamin A in Wound Healing. Nutr Clin Pract 2019;34:695-700.

Hunt TK. Vitamin A and wound healing. J Am Acad Dermatol. 1986;15(4 Pt 2):817-821.

Brandaleone H, Papper E. The effect of the local and oral administration of cod liver oil on the rate of wound healing in vitamin A-deficient and normal rats. Ann Surg. 1941;114(4):791-798.

Ehrlich HP, Hunt TK. Effects of cortisone and vitamin A on wound healing. Ann Surg. 1968;167(3):324-328.

MacKay D, Miller AL. Nutritional support for wound healing. Altern Med Rev. 2003;8(4):359-377.

Stephensen CB. Vitamin A, infection, and immune function. Annu Rev Nutr. 2001;21:167-192.

*Disclaimer:  If you suffer from any medical illness or have medical concerns or questions, please speak with your healthcare provider. The information on wound healing found on this site is derived from peer-reviewed research and information drawn from medical societies and governmental agencies, links to which are available under “Sources.” However, they are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.