Researchers identified 13 key nutrients that were found in higher concentrations for those in the delayed brain aging group than those in the accelerated brain aging group. The 13 nutrients, including fatty acids, antioxidants, carotenoids, and vitamins, are commonly found in the Mediterranean diet in foods such as fish, nuts, oils, and leafy greens. 

Findings from a recent study in Nature Mental Health exploring the gut-brain-microbiota axis revealed that those who adhered to a Mediterranean diet experienced reduced PTSD symptoms,

The study authors conclude, “Our findings suggest that nutrition plays a positive role during acute mTBI recovery. Specific evidence clearly supporting the use of any particular nutraceutical remains slim, even with the promising reports about omega-3 fatty acid supplements or vitamin D repletion.

A study found that “veterans with chronic headache were very interested in combining alternatives, such as acupuncture, massage, yoga or tai chi, with mainstream medicine and that they were encouraged by the fact that alternatives exist to simply taking additional pharmaceuticals for pain.”

Some clinics in the Defense Intrepid Network for TBI and Brain health, a system of 13 clinics for TBIs, have integrated nutrition plans into treatment programs for “active duty service members diagnosed with mild-to-moderate TBI and associated health conditions.”

Doctoral researcher Rebecca Denniss tells Concussion Alliance about her research investigating the potential for micronutrients to improve cognition following traumatic brain injury.