Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) can have lasting effects on physical, cognitive, and emotional well-being. Recovering from TBI often involves a multifaceted approach, combining traditional medical treatments with complementary methods such as neurofeedback and targeted nutrition. Many years ago, I wrote an article in Holistic Primary Care about this combination. This article serves as an update on that article. I explore supplements for TBI recovery in this post with an understanding of why they work.
Understanding Traumatic Brain Injury and its AftermathSup
A sudden jolt or impact to the head can cause a TBI, leading to brain damage. This can cause symptoms such as memory loss, fatigue, mood changes, and difficulty concentrating. Recovery can be challenging and prolonged, as the brain requires adequate support to repair and regenerate damaged cells. Studies have shown a link between TBI and dementia in adults 55 and older. A 55-year-old with a moderate concussion or a 65-year-old with a mild concussion is more likely to develop dementia than a cohort with no concussion. Therefore, treatment of some sort is critical for long-term health. Supplements for TBI recovery, combined with neurofeedback, can support recovery by reducing inflammation, oxidative stress, and underlying nutrient deficiencies.
Key Nutritional Deficiencies and Supplements for TBI Recovery
Demonstrated research shows that many nutrients play a role in brain health and recovery from injury. For instance, inflammation and oxidative stress are common in TBI, and certain vitamins, minerals, and other compounds can counteract these processes.
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, especially EPA and DHA, reduce inflammation and support cognitive function. They promote membrane stability in neurons and may improve mood and cognitive outcomes in TBI patients. Studies have found that TBI patients with higher DHA levels experience better recovery rates, as DHA supports cell membrane repair and synaptic plasticity. Omega-3 fatty acids in higher doses (3 grams per day) may reduce depression in patients with no other interventions.
2. Antioxidant-Rich Supplements
TBI often increases oxidative stress, which can lead to further cell damage. Antioxidants can neutralize these effects and protect brain cells from further harm. Key antioxidants for TBI recovery include:
Vitamin C: Known for its neuroprotective effects and ability to reduce inflammation.
Vitamin E: Protects cell membranes and reduces free radical damage.
Coenzyme Q10: Supports cellular energy production and can mitigate mitochondrial dysfunction, often observed in TBI. CoQ10 is a very important supplement for TBI recovery because of the energy requirements needed by the brain. Watch my video about mitochondria to learn more.
Blueberry Anthocyanins: Anti-inflammatory and reduces oxidative stress, this is highly important for brain healing. They also help regulate BDNF (brain-derived neurotropic factor), something that gets mis-regulated after a brain injury.
3. Magnesium
Magnesium deficiency is common in TBI patients. It plays a critical role in stabilizing neural activity and reducing excitotoxicity (neuronal damage caused by excessive neurotransmitter release). Magnesium supplementation can help reduce symptoms like headaches and cognitive issues, making it a valuable addition to TBI recovery protocols. Magnesium also is important for ATP production.
4. Curcumin
Curcumin, an active compound found in turmeric, possesses potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin can cross the blood-brain barrier, making it particularly beneficial in brain-related injuries. Studies suggest curcumin may reduce amyloid plaque formation, commonly associated with cognitive decline, and improve neurogenesis (the process of creating new neurons). The research on curcumin for TBI is conflicting. Some studies show it being effective, while others have not. Variations in the quality of supplement may be a factor in these results. If you try curcumin, find a high potency version.
5. Vitamin D
Vitamin D deficiency is linked to a variety of neurological and cognitive issues, such as mood disorders and slower recovery from brain injuries. Vitamin D supports brain health by promoting anti-inflammatory cytokine production and regulating calcium levels. Studies show that supplementing with vitamin D can improve outcomes in TBI patients, particularly those with mood-related symptoms.
6. Riboflavin and other B Vitamins
Riboflavin is essential as a coenzyme in ATP production. As I’ve already discussed, brain healing requires high amounts of energy. Patients given 400 mg of riboflavin daily for two weeks within 24 hours of the TBI showed significant improvement than patients given a placebo. Studies with other B vitamins in humans are limited. But B12 deficiency is associated with cognitive decline and is crucial for neurological function. As we get older, our ability to absorb B12 diminishes leading to potential issues. If you are over 55, you may want to see about getting B12 injections to help.
7. Zinc Picolinate
Clinical studies show zinc deficiency is a big problem for patients with TBI. In rat studies, severe zinc deficiency worsened the effects of TBI. Studies in humans showed that increasing zinc immediately after a concussion improved outcomes and lessened the severity of symptoms. Zinc is also important in forming the protein metallothionein, which protects the blood-brain barrier.
As you can see, there are many supplements for TBI Recovery. Key nutrients like omega-3s, magnesium, and antioxidants address underlying inflammation and oxidative stress. I like to combine nutrients with LENS neurofeedback, though I can’t always provide that to patients. But the research continues to validate natural approaches to TBI treatment, offering a non-invasive option to recovery.
Dr. Gil, a naturopathic physician in Honolulu, has over 20 years of experience using LENS neurofeedbackLENS neurofeedback and the Walsh Protocol to help patients with TBI. His approach incorporates nutrient therapy alongside LENS sessions to provide a comprehensive recovery plan that targets both physiological and neurological aspects of TBI. For more information on this approach, you can contact Dr. Gil at info@askdrgil.com or 808-726-2772.
Some Sources:
Mitigating Traumatic Brain Injury: A Narrative Review of Supplementation and Dietary Protocols
Improving treatments and outcomes: an emerging role for zinc in traumatic brain injury
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