Dietary Supplements (Nutraceuticals) for Improving Adult Fracture Healing Outcomes: A Narrative Review of Current Evidence and Gaps

Fracture healing (fracture union) is a central goal of adult orthopedic trauma care. Patients frequently use dietary supplements (nutraceuticals) during fracture recovery to reduce the risk of delayed union and nonunion. However, clinicians have limited guidance from high-quality clinical trials and a large body of preclinical evidence. Malunion and nonunion can cause repeated surgeries, disability, and high costs. Nutraceuticals such as protein, amino acids, collagen, calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, zinc, vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and creatine are considered adjuncts in fracture healing, influencing collagen synthesis, mineralization, inflammation, and muscle health. Animal studies show mixed results but suggest benefits. Human evidence primarily involves proteins, amino acids, vitamin D, and calcium, with mixed effects on healing and radiographic union, and small studies on magnesium, zinc, and vitamin C. Early data on magnesium and zinc suggest potential benefits for early healing, but evidence remains limited. No adult trials directly assess collagen, omega-3s, or creatine, highlighting the need for more well-designed studies with standard outcomes. Evidence regarding the role of these nutraceuticals in fracture prevention or bone density is used as background and for hypothesis development when direct evidence of fracture is scarce. We identify patient groups most likely to benefit, such as older adults with malnutrition, low protein intake, vitamin D deficiency, or fragility fractures. We also discuss practical considerations for perioperative supplement counseling and highlight key evidence gaps to inform future fracture-healing research.