Key Takeaways:
- Traumatic brain injuries result in damage to the brain.
- Chemical changes in the brain occur post-injury and can lead to mitochondrial damage and free radical formation.
- Using exogenous ketones can have a neuroprotective effect on the brain.
- Post-TBI nutrition is vital to recovery.
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are defined as “an alteration in brain function or brain pathology resulting from an external force.” [1] This force can be caused by anything that results from a rapid movement of the brain within the skull. Blows to the head from sports related injuries, falls, or even motor vehicle accidents are some of the most common causes of TBIs.
When the injury occurs, chemical changes occur within the brain. Glucose consumption within the brain increases significantly post injury. [2] There is some evidence that indicates, depending on the severity of the injury, glucose demand may be increased by 87–200% and has the potential to last up to 30 days. [1] Once this has occurred, glucose metabolism quickly decreases and results in the production of free radicals and a decrease in several key minerals, such as magnesium, that result in further damage. [2]
Why Do Ketones Work?
Research is continually being performed to determine all of the benefits of ketone bodies. One of the areas of interest concerns the neuroprotective properties of ketones. By using ketones after a traumatic brain injury, there is the potential to decrease oxidative stress within the brain. In one study from Greco et al. (2015), researchers found that ketones were able to decrease oxidative stresses and, at the same time, have a sparing effect on mitochondrial function. [3]
The nutrient demands post-TBI go beyond ketones; used in combination with other nutritional therapies, however, ketones can play a vital role in recovery. Based on current literature, research supports the use of ketones in the treatment of traumatic brain injuries. As stated in previous studies, “nutrition-based interventions have the potential to enhance recovery,” which is why post-injury nutrition is so important for athletes. [4]
