What is the impact of adequate protein on wound healing?

• A. Adequate protein supports tissue repair and immune function; malnutrition impairs healing
• B. Protein has no effect on wound healing
• C. High protein intake delays healing
• D. Protein only affects immune function, not tissue repair

Answer: (B)

Adequate protein is essential for wound healing because it provides the building blocks for tissue repair and supports immune defense. Healing requires collagen synthesis, new tissue formation, and immune cells to prevent infection; all of these processes depend on a steady supply of amino acids from protein. When protein intake is sufficient, nitrogen balance is positive, supporting robust collagen deposition, granulation tissue, and stronger wound tensile strength. Conversely, protein malnutrition causes negative nitrogen balance, impaired collagen formation, delayed wound contraction, and higher infection risk, all slowing healing. So the best answer reflects that adequate protein promotes tissue repair and that malnutrition impairs healing. A statement claiming no effect or that high protein delays healing contradicts well-established physiology and clinical observations.