Training & Nutrition - Injury Nutrition - What helps heal?

If I've pulled a muscle or generally something just doesn't feel right, what should I be eating to repair myself?

I've read the debates on here about protein vs carb nutrition and their benefits. The debates seem to attack the issue from the point of post ride supplemental drinks. An injury seems like it would be a different beast. Is protein absolutely the answer in this situation? My non-expert thinking would say yes since we're trying to rebuild muscle. Am I right?

Gracias,
Matt

I never tell any of my athletes to increase their protein intake after pulling a muscle. Truth be know, if you eat a "normal" American diet, you probably are taking in way more protein than you need (10-15% protein in the diet is all we really need). The excess is converted to fat and stored or burned for energy. Chances are, you are getting plenty of the protein building blocks that you need to rebuild that injured muscle. For a pulled muscle, I would probably recommend more stretching (gently, no pain) and more fluids, and don't mess with the diet.

D

If I've pulled a muscle or generally something just doesn't feel right, what should I be eating to repair myself?

I've read the debates on here about protein vs carb nutrition and their benefits. The debates seem to attack the issue from the point of post ride supplemental drinks. An injury seems like it would be a different beast. Is protein absolutely the answer in this situation? My non-expert thinking would say yes since we're trying to rebuild muscle. Am I right?

Gracias,
Matt

The answer depends on what you are eating now, but generally I think you need to eat well all the time rather than specifically around an injury.

I have heard repeatedly that extra Zinc helps heal flech wounds like road rash and body piercings.

I have heard repeatedly that extra Zinc helps heal flech wounds

So what do you do about the rest of the arrow?:D
I know you meant "flesh wounds", but I couldn't resist.

D