Evidence-Based Nutrient Recommendations
Evidence-Based Nutrient Recommendations

Wound Healing in Vegans

Published

by Jack Norris, Registered Dietitian

Arm with wound

I’ve added a short appendix, Wound Healing in Vegans, to our Protein page.

Posso et al. (United States, 2025) conducted a review of studies examining the impact of wound healing in vegans and vegetarians. They found poorer wound healing in vegans.

In my opinion, the difference is likely due to lower protein intakes, and possibly zinc intakes, among vegans recovering from surgery.

Vegans with wounds should pay particular attention to obtaining ample amounts of protein and may want to consider taking a zinc supplement of approximately the RDA (11 mg for men, 8 mg for women), in addition to obtaining the typical nutrients of concern in vegan diets (see Nutrition Tips for Vegans).

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  • If you have a question about whether it's okay to cut supplements in half or combine supplements to achieve the dose we recommend, the answer is “Yes.” Be aware that nutrient recommendations are only estimates—it's not necessary to consume the exact amount we recommend every single day.
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