What Is a Canker Sore ? Canker sores (or aphthous stomatitis) are single groups of shallow, painful ulcers found in the mouth or gums. Canker sores are extremely common. For most people, they are an occasional inconvenience, but some people deal with recurrent canker sores. And in these people who suffer from recurrent canker sores may develop canker sores up to four times each year. What Causes a Canker Sore ? A canker sore can be caused by several initiating factors such as trauma from biting your cheek, a toothbrush, or hard, sharp food, as well as food or chemical allergies/sensitivities (e.g., gluten, dairy, sodium lauryl sulfate, etc.), nutrient deficiency, and stress. Is a canker sore the same as a cold sore? Many people confuse canker sores and cold sores, but they are not the same. Cold sores or fever blisters may erupt secondary to infection or activation of the herpes simplex one virus. When the virus infects or re-emerges, painful blisters appear on the outside of the...
When your body is healing from a wound, providing it with the right nutritional support can make a significant difference in recovery time and effectiveness. The complex cellular and biochemical events in wound healing require specific nutrients for the best results, including energy, amino acids, oxygen, metals, trace minerals, and vitamins. 3 In this article, we'll explore key supplements, vitamins, and minerals that may support wound healing. Research also indicates that malnutrition is highly prevalent and often overlooked in patients with chronic wounds. 2 So, combining supplementation with a nutrient-dense diet is key. The Foundation: Essential Amino Acids Two amino acids in particular play crucial roles in wound healing: L-glutamine and L-arginine. L-glutamine serves as the primary metabolic fuel for rapidly proliferating cells like epithelial cells and fibroblasts. 4 It becomes especially important during periods of stress or injury, helping to protect ag...