The term brain damage, or brain injury, refers to the destruction or degeneration of brain cells. Roughly 1.7 million people in the United States sustain a traumatic brain injury each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which may result from a jolt or blow to the head. Although foods aren’t known to cure or solely treat brain damage, a nutritious diet may enhance healing and support medical care in managing your symptoms.
Good:
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant, meaning it supports your body’s ability to resist and heal from infections and disease. Top sources of vitamin E include wheat germ oil, almonds, almond butter, sunflower seeds, sunflower oil and safflower oil. For added wellness benefits, replace saturated fat sources in your diet, such as butter and high-fat cheese, with nuts, seeds and vegetable oils.
Fruits and vegetables are prime sources of antioxidants, including vitamin C, beta-carotene and lycopene. Foods high in antioxidants clean your brain from substances known as free radicals, which cause deterioration, according to YourFamilyClinic.com. They can also help reverse memory loss and restore balance and coordination.
The oil in cold-water fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids — healthy fats that play an important role in your brain’s ability to recall information and function normally, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. They may also help reduce inflammation. (livestrong.com)
Not So Good:
Alcohol should be avoided completely during the concussion recovery process. As Brainline detailed, alcohol tolerance levels can decrease after a concussion and excessive alcohol consumption can contribute to further cognitive decline.
It’s important to ditch the candy bars and cakes during recovery from concussion, Brainline stated. Sweet foods offer little nutritional value and can lead to a number of health complaints.
In a similar vein to sugar, doctors advise that healthy people limit their intake of fried foods, so it is especially important for patients experiencing concussion to do so as well. Highly processed, fatty and salty foods, such as the options available at most fast food restaurants, should be avoided. (andrewsinstitute.com)