Supplements May Offer Neuroprotection After Traumatic Brain Injury

Published in the journal Nutrients, this new study describes how traumatic brain injuries constitute a major source of disability and death worldwide. Such injuries invariably result in a host of negative health outcomes and long-term complications, placing a heavy financial burden on healthcare systems.

A promising avenue for the prevention and treatment of traumatic brain injuries, say the researchers, is the design of supplementation and dietary protocols centered around natural substances whose mechanisms of action have been shown to interfere with, and potentially alleviate, some of the neurophysiological processes triggered by these injuries. Examples discussed in the study include omega-3 fatty acids, branched-chain amino acids, vitamin B2, choline, magnesium, and acetylcysteine.

The researchers conclude that with clinical evidence in this research field emerging rapidly, a comprehensive approach including appropriate nutritional interventions has the potential to mitigate some of the physical, neurological, and emotional damage inflicted by traumatic brain injuries, promote timely and effective recovery, as well as inform health policymakers regarding the development of suitable prevention strategies.

To read about research suggesting that high-dose omega-3 fatty acids may help protect American Football players from repetitive head injuries, see this news story on our website.