Even after working as a surgeon for decades, Joseph F. McCaffrey MD, FACS still considers wound healing to be miraculous. However, it is an everyday miracle. It usually happens so naturally, we take it for granted. But what if a wound fails to mend? For the past several years, the author has worked exclusively at a specialized wound center treating just these kinds of wounds. In these difficult cases, the first step is to figure out what's gone wrong. Often issues such as uncontrolled swelling, diabetes, kidney failure and others are to blame. But more often than not, poor nutrition contributes. The sad fact is that the typical American diet, while loaded with calories, frequently lacks key nutrients essential for healing. While advanced treatments such as sophisticated dressings, compression wraps, skin grafts, hyperbaric oxygen treatments and so forth are important, they succeed only if key nutrients are available. Eat to Heal: Explainsthe elements of a balanced diet crucial for those suffering with chronic wounds Helps to create a healthy, personalized nutrition program specifically tailored for wound healing. Suggests key supplements to speed the healing process Outlines the phases of wound healing and what can be done to help each step. Dr. McCaffrey strives to help people live vital lives. He is deeply interested in the contributions mental attitude, stress management and nutrition make to a person's overall well-being. Written for patients and their families, this practical and down-to-earth guide contains information that readers will find both positive and enlightening."