Children who suffer third-degree burn injuries may experience a severe depletion of vitamin E, according to findings published in the American Journal of Clinical Research.
For this study, a team of researchers monitored vitamin E levels in eight children with third-degree burns. Specifically, the nutrient intake was examined in the adipose tissue, or fat tissues.
Upon admittance into the hospital, patients had approximately 150 percent of the normal recommendation of this nutrient added to their diets over the course of three weeks. Despite the increased vitamin E intake, the children still experienced rapid loss of this compound.
The team discovered that of the eight patients, three children had developed vitamin E deficiency following immediate treatment for their injuries. Nerve damage is one of the most common results of severe burn injuries, but can also be caused by a vitamin E deficiency.
The researchers concluded that in order to improve the recovery of burn victims, physicians should consider monitoring vitamin E levels more closely. By increasing nutrient intake, doctors may be able to further prevent nerve damage caused by injuries.
In addition to supplements containing vitamin E, natural alternatives that may be added to one’s diet to increase nutrient intake include pecans, according to a study conducted of the University of Massachusetts, Lowell.