Nutrition and Injury Recovery: The Best Foods to Speed up Healing Time

Ginger

Ginger has been used for centuries to promote healing due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It contains the compound gingerol which is believed to be responsible for many of its healing capabilities. Gingerol reduces oxidative stress on injured tissues, speeding up recovery time and helping to prevent further injury. Studies have shown that ginger also protects glutathione levels in the body. Glutathione is considered one of the body’s most important antioxidants and is responsible for protecting the body against inflammation. It also plays a role in tissue regeneration, enzyme production, and detoxification. Because ginger plays a role in protecting this vital antioxidant, it can greatly speed recovery time.

Berries

Berries contain both high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C. Due to their high concentrations of these nutrients; they play an essential role in reducing recovery time. Vitamin C is heavily involved in the production of collagen and assists with bone healing. It is also involved in tissue repair and is considered to be a powerful antioxidant. Berries are also an excellent source of carbohydrates which are necessary throughout the healing process. When the body uses carbs for fuel, it doesn't need to break down protein for energy. A constant stream of amino acids is necessary for tissue regeneration, so providing the body with enough carbohydrate fuel is essential to healing.