What supplements should burn patients take?

Nov 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Supplements that can be considered after burns generally include protein powder, vitamin C supplements, zinc supplements, and multivitamins. After a burn, the body requires large amounts of protein to repair damaged tissue. Protein powder provides a rapid source of high-quality protein, promoting skin cell regeneration and tissue healing, thereby reducing wound healing time. It is especially suitable for patients with poor appetite or those who have difficulty consuming sufficient protein through regular diet.

After a burn injury, available nutritional supplements generally include protein powder, vitamin C preparations, zinc supplements, multivitamins, probiotic formulations, etc. The details are as follows:

1. **Protein Powder**: Healing burn wounds requires large amounts of protein. Protein powder provides a rapid source of high-quality protein, promoting skin cell regeneration and tissue repair, thereby reducing wound healing time. It is especially suitable for patients with poor appetite or those who struggle to consume sufficient protein through regular diet. It should be taken according to the recommended dosage to avoid excessive intake that may increase kidney burden.

2. **Vitamin C Preparations**: Vitamin C promotes collagen synthesis, enhances wound strength, supports wound healing, and boosts the body's antioxidant capacity, helping to reduce oxidative stress damage after burns. It should be taken according to dosage instructions and spaced apart from other supplements to ensure optimal absorption.

3. **Zinc Supplements**: Zinc plays a role in the synthesis of various enzymes and is crucial for cell growth, division, and repair. Zinc levels can decrease significantly after burns. Supplementing with zinc can accelerate wound healing and lower the risk of infection. Dosage should be determined under medical supervision to prevent long-term overuse that could lead to zinc toxicity.

4. **Multivitamins**: The body’s demand for various vitamins increases after a burn injury. Multivitamins provide comprehensive supplementation of vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, vitamin D, and others. Vitamin A promotes epithelial cell growth, while B vitamins support energy metabolism, aiding recovery. Multivitamins are suitable for long-term nutritional support.

5. **Probiotic Formulations**: Burn patients may experience gut microbiota imbalance due to antibiotic use or intestinal dysfunction. Probiotics help restore intestinal microbial balance, improve digestive and absorptive functions, and enhance nutrient uptake from food, thus supporting wound repair. These products should be stored refrigerated to maintain bacterial viability.

Prior to selecting any supplement, consultation with a doctor or nutritionist is essential to determine the appropriate type and dosage based on the severity of the burn and individual health status. If adverse effects such as bloating or diarrhea occur during use, discontinue immediately and seek advice from a healthcare professional.

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