What nutrient is essential for wound healing, alongside protein?

Vitamin C plays a critical role in wound healing due to its involvement in collagen synthesis, which is vital for tissue repair. Collagen is a protein that provides structure, strength, and support to the skin and other tissues. As wounds heal, the body requires adequate levels of Vitamin C to effectively produce collagen and facilitate the healing process.

In addition to its role in collagen formation, Vitamin C is also an antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage. It supports the immune system, which is essential for preventing infections during the wound healing process. This nutrient enhances the absorption of iron from plant-based foods, helping to maintain adequate hemoglobin levels, further supporting healing by ensuring that tissues receive enough oxygen.

Although other vitamins such as Vitamin A, D, and K play important roles in the body, they are not as directly linked to the wound healing process as Vitamin C is.