Why do you bruise easily?
“Bruises occur when small blood vessels near the surface of the skin rupture, causing a small amount of blood to leak into the surrounding tissue. In people who bruise easily, this process is amplified and the skin may also take longer to heal,” says Dr Shrey Kumar Srivastav, senior consultant at Sharda Hospital, Greater Noida, India.
Supplementing with certain vitamins, minerals, and nutrients can help strengthen blood vessels and skin, making you less likely to bruise.”
Nutrients that help prevent bruises
Vitamin C: Vitamin C is essential for the production of collagen, a protein that supports the structure of blood vessels and skin. A lack of vitamin C can lead to weak blood vessels, making you more susceptible to bruising.
Vitamin K: Vitamin K is important for blood clotting, which helps stop bleeding and prevent bruising. People who are deficient in vitamin K may bruise more easily.
Bioflavonoids: Bioflavonoids, also known as flavonoids, are compounds that have antioxidant properties and support healthy blood vessels. Combined with vitamin C, they help strengthen capillary walls and reduce the risk of bruising.
Iron: Iron is essential for the production of red blood cells (RBCs) and helps transport oxygen throughout the body. When iron levels are low, the body has difficulty forming healthy blood cells, leading to pale skin and increased bruising.
Zinc: Zinc plays an important role in tissue repair and wound healing, which is especially important for people who bruise easily. Zinc deficiency can slow wound healing and make the skin more susceptible to damage.
Protein: Protein is needed to maintain the structure and repair of tissues, including skin and blood vessels. Low protein intake can lead to fragile blood vessels, making you more susceptible to bruising and slower to heal.
