A concussion is a type of brain injury that occurs after head injury. Unlike many other types of brain injury, this type is not associated with structural brain damage. The mainstay off treatment is adequate rest during which time the brain heal and one can return to normalcy. Ongoing research indicates that several supplements are quite useful in expediting the healing process. This article explores various minerals and vitamins for concussion recovery.
The benefit of supplements has been established following a number of studies. It is now evident that concussion injuries result in the production of various mediators of inflammation. One of the most significant chemicals produced is the brain-derived neurotrophic factor, BDNF. The main function of this factor is to promote healing of neurons and the regeneration of pathways of communication within the brain. Anything that would cause the increase of this compound would, therefore, also expedite the healing process.
A high protein diet is highly recommended for any patient who has suffered this form of brain injury. The optimal dose is about a kilogram of protein per kilogram of body weight. The most ideal form of protein to be given would be eggs or steak. This is, however, not possible because of the severe vomiting that accompanies the condition and can easily be worsened by these forms of protein. Pea and whey protein are safer alternatives.
Vitamin D has been shown to be highly effective. Its main benefit is to increase the levels of BDNF. The levels of the substance significantly higher during the warm months of summer and spring as compared to the colder months of autumn and winter. The recommended daily intake for the vitamin is 5000 IU per day.
Omega 3 fats are known to have both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They have been used successfully in treating a number of patients with concussion injuries. Their main role is to reinforce the cell membranes of neurons. The fats are effective in reducing the production of prostaglandins and other mediators of inflammation. Some of the sources of omega 3 fats include walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds and salmon 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 has also been tried in a number of patients with promising results. Its mechanism of action involves reducing inflammation in the brain and raising the levels of glutathione. It is particularly useful in preventing a condition called post concussion syndrome. To be effective, the element should be taken at a dose of 600mg per day.
There is a huge number of nutritional supplements that may be used in managing brain injury. Even as one explores this route, they must remember that it is not the principle treatment. Rather it is simply a form of supportive therapy used alongside conventional treatments.
The benefit of supplements has been established following a number of studies. It is now evident that concussion injuries result in the production of various mediators of inflammation. One of the most significant chemicals produced is the brain-derived neurotrophic factor, BDNF. The main function of this factor is to promote healing of neurons and the regeneration of pathways of communication within the brain. Anything that would cause the increase of this compound would, therefore, also expedite the healing process.
A high protein diet is highly recommended for any patient who has suffered this form of brain injury. The optimal dose is about a kilogram of protein per kilogram of body weight. The most ideal form of protein to be given would be eggs or steak. This is, however, not possible because of the severe vomiting that accompanies the condition and can easily be worsened by these forms of protein. Pea and whey protein are safer alternatives.
Vitamin D has been shown to be highly effective. Its main benefit is to increase the levels of BDNF. The levels of the substance significantly higher during the warm months of summer and spring as compared to the colder months of autumn and winter. The recommended daily intake for the vitamin is 5000 IU per day.
Omega 3 fats are known to have both anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. They have been used successfully in treating a number of patients with concussion injuries. Their main role is to reinforce the cell membranes of neurons. The fats are effective in reducing the production of prostaglandins and other mediators of inflammation. Some of the sources of omega 3 fats include walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds and salmon 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 has also been tried in a number of patients with promising results. Its mechanism of action involves reducing inflammation in the brain and raising the levels of glutathione. It is particularly useful in preventing a condition called post concussion syndrome. To be effective, the element should be taken at a dose of 600mg per day.
There is a huge number of nutritional supplements that may be used in managing brain injury. Even as one explores this route, they must remember that it is not the principle treatment. Rather it is simply a form of supportive therapy used alongside conventional treatments.
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