Concussions are a form of brain injury occurring in the setting of head trauma. This form of injury is not associated with any structural damage to the brain and the individual will typically regain normal health with a bit of rest and supportive management. However, research has shown that nutritional supplements greatly aid in the healing process. We will explore some if the minerals and Vitamins for concussion recovery in this article.
Benefits of using supplements has been proven by various studies. It has been shown that concussion injuries often result in formation of various mediators of inflammation. The most significant among them is a substance known as brain derived neurotrophic factor or BDNF. This factor is advantageous in that it facilitates the healing of damaged neurons and also aids in the regeneration of neural pathways. Most supplements used work by increasing the synthesis of BDNF.
A high protein diet is recommended for any individual that has suffered from or is suspected to have sustained this form of brain injury. One kilogram of protein for a kilogram of body weight is generally recommended. In theory, eggs and steak would be the most ideal choice. Due to nausea seen in the setting of head injury, these options are not appropriate as they are likely to exacerbate the problem. Whey protein and pea protein are tolerated more easily.
Vitamin D is also greatly beneficial. Exposure to sunlight increases the levels of BDNF. This is why the levels are a lot higher in the summer and spring seasons and lower during the colder seasons of autumn and winter. Vitamin D helps in the uptake and utilization of sunlight energy. The optimal dose of the vitamin is 5000 IU per day.
Omega 3 fats are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They have a variety of uses including the treatment of concussion injuries. In the brain, they also help in reinforcing the membranes of neurons. Other major benefits include a reduction of prostaglandins levels which further reduces the inflammation. Rich sources of omega 3 fats include flaxseeds, walnuts, salmon and chia seeds among others.
Glutathione is another element said to benefit up to 70% of persons who receive it. Although an oral formulations exists, it is rapidly degraded by the hydrochloric acid in the stomach which results in loss of potency. The intravenous form is thus preferred. Vitamin B3, selenium and vitamin C are considered building blocks of glutathione and can be provided in the diet. The recommended daily dose is 2000 to 4000 mg per day.
Magnesium is yet another important element that is prescribed. It prevents a condition termed post concussion syndrome. Some of the other benefits of this element include reduction in inflammation and an increase in glutathione levels. The recommended daily intake for this element is about 600mg.
There are many other nutritional supplements that continue to exhibit some benefit for this group of patients. Many more are becoming evident from research. Combining the supplements in various ratios is synergistic. More importantly the nutrients should not be regarded as a primary treatment. Rather they should mainly be used alongside the conventional treatments.
Benefits of using supplements has been proven by various studies. It has been shown that concussion injuries often result in formation of various mediators of inflammation. The most significant among them is a substance known as brain derived neurotrophic factor or BDNF. This factor is advantageous in that it facilitates the healing of damaged neurons and also aids in the regeneration of neural pathways. Most supplements used work by increasing the synthesis of BDNF.
A high protein diet is recommended for any individual that has suffered from or is suspected to have sustained this form of brain injury. One kilogram of protein for a kilogram of body weight is generally recommended. In theory, eggs and steak would be the most ideal choice. Due to nausea seen in the setting of head injury, these options are not appropriate as they are likely to exacerbate the problem. Whey protein and pea protein are tolerated more easily.
Vitamin D is also greatly beneficial. Exposure to sunlight increases the levels of BDNF. This is why the levels are a lot higher in the summer and spring seasons and lower during the colder seasons of autumn and winter. Vitamin D helps in the uptake and utilization of sunlight energy. The optimal dose of the vitamin is 5000 IU per day.
Omega 3 fats are commonly used for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They have a variety of uses including the treatment of concussion injuries. In the brain, they also help in reinforcing the membranes of neurons. Other major benefits include a reduction of prostaglandins levels which further reduces the inflammation. Rich sources of omega 3 fats include flaxseeds, walnuts, salmon and chia seeds among others.
Glutathione is another element said to benefit up to 70% of persons who receive it. Although an oral formulations exists, it is rapidly degraded by the hydrochloric acid in the stomach which results in loss of potency. The intravenous form is thus preferred. Vitamin B3, selenium and vitamin C are considered building blocks of glutathione and can be provided in the diet. The recommended daily dose is 2000 to 4000 mg per day.
Magnesium is yet another important element that is prescribed. It prevents a condition termed post concussion syndrome. Some of the other benefits of this element include reduction in inflammation and an increase in glutathione levels. The recommended daily intake for this element is about 600mg.
There are many other nutritional supplements that continue to exhibit some benefit for this group of patients. Many more are becoming evident from research. Combining the supplements in various ratios is synergistic. More importantly the nutrients should not be regarded as a primary treatment. Rather they should mainly be used alongside the conventional treatments.
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