Useful Vitamins For Concussion Recovery

By William Gray


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.

Patients who have sustained concussion injuries should be put on a high protein diet. The daily intake should be at one kilo of protein for a kilo of body weight. Steak and eggs are the most ideal form of protein supplementation but their use in managing this problem is limited. They are likely to worsen the vomiting associated with the condition and hence the need to use other alternatives. Pea and whey protein are some of these alternatives.

Vitamin D has been demonstrated to increase the levels of BDNF. The levels of the compound are predictably higher during the seasons of summer and spring and lower during winter. This can mainly be attributed to the higher exposure of sunlight during the warmer months. Vitamin D helps in the uptake of sunlight energy and hence its use in treatment. The recommended daily intake is 5000 IU.

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 a useful element that needs to be also considered. It is said to be effective 70% of the time. The oral formulation is not used because it is rapidly destroyed in the stomach as soon as it is ingested. This means that it has a lower potency. The intravenous form is thus used and is administered at a dose of 2000mg to 4000mg per day. There a number of nutrients rich in glutathione available in the diet. They include vitamin B3, vitamin C and selenium.

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 numerous nutritional supplements that may be considered for this group of patients. Many others continue to be discovered with ongoing research. The general advice is that the elements should be combined whenever possible so as to increase the chances of success. One must bear in mind that this are not the primary treatments for the condition but rather supportive therapy.




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