Tag: Injury recovery food

An estimated 2 million ankle injuries occur in the United States every year, making it one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. While R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) is the immediate treatment, the right nutrition is crucial for recovery. The question of what food is good for a sprained ankle is answered by focusing on anti-inflammatory nutrients, protein for tissue repair, and vitamins and minerals that boost collagen synthesis.

The body’s metabolic rate can increase by 10% to 25% or more following major trauma or surgery, meaning your calorie needs are higher than normal during recovery. This article explores why your nutritional needs change when healing and what specific nutrients are most important to prioritize for optimal recovery.

A common misconception is that all healing requires simply consuming more calories. In reality, while your body's energy needs often increase during recovery from illness or injury, the type and quality of those calories are far more important than the total quantity. The specific nutrients—not just more food—are the building blocks for tissue repair, immune function, and a faster return to health.