Cellulitis is a skin infection that results from the entry of bacteria via skin cuts and other wounds. The usual culprits are the bacteria of the Staphylococcus or Streptococcus species. Skin infection from cellulitis is usually characterized by redness, itching, swelling and pain on the affected skin parts. When skin cuts are not treated well, they become entry points for bacteria and cause cellulitis. A lot of people say that people who have low blood protein or who have protein deficiencies in their diet are prone to develop cellulitis.
Protein as a Vital Body Nutrient
Protein is one of the most important nutrients in the body. It has a great role in tissue repair and body building functions. Protein is important for the body to initiate proper wound healing and skin tissue regeneration. Sources of protein include meat, milk, legumes, eggs and other grains. A diet high on protein is important in fighting off cellulitis and other infections. Protein is also important in maintaining healthy skin and heals wounds. Having a diet deficient in protein would predispose or put a person at risk to various infections, including cellulitis.
Function of Protein on Wound Healing
Cellulitis and low blood protein is usually associated with each other. People who get cellulitis are usually those who have a low protein diet. When your body is low on this essential nutrient, wound healing is delayed. Slow-healing wounds are easy portals or entry points of bacteria. This makes people with a protein deficient diet to be more susceptible to cellulitis and other infections.
Staphylococcus Aureus and Delayed Wound Healing
The most common cause of cellulitis is a Staphylococcus aureus, a relatively harmless bacterium that normally thrives on the skin. However, this bacterium become harmful when in it reaches deeper skin layers. The role of protein in cellulitis is seen when low blood proteins slow down wound healing. The wounds serve as breaks in the skin favorable for the multiplication and proliferation of S. aureus. Protein and cellulitis are indeed related to each other. Strive to make your diet richer in protein to avoid wound infections and re-infections that could lead to cellulitis.
