Your body has an amazing ability to repair itself after serious illness or injury.  The following excerpts are from an AARP essay based on Rodale Press’  “Super Healing” by Harvard’s Julie K. Silver, M.D.

Start with Good Nutrition:  Eat five times a day consisting of three meals and two nutritious snacks.  Use Complex Carbohydrates with a low glycemic index (below 55) in order to minimize blood sugar spikes that cause cellular inflammation-nuts, seeds, legumes and whole grains.  Protein is essential for cell repair and should be 20% of your caloric intake; plant based proteins have phytochemicals that help with healing and additional fiber.  Eat at least five servings of dark fruits and vegetables which have more vitamins, phytochemicals and antioxidants.  Supplements should be a good multivitamin with additional calcium and vitamin D.

Make seven to eight hours of sleep a priority.  No alcohol, caffeine, stress or exercise close to when you go to bed.

Get Moving!  Physical activity promotes faster healing and repair of tissues.  Simplest goal is to walk 10,000 steps a day or 5 to 6 miles; a pedometer will help you measure and keep track of this.

If you’ve been ill or injured or have a chronic medical condition, aim for maximum healing – and don’t stop till you achieve it.