More than 1 million people in the United States suffer traumatic brain injury yearly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A significant bump, blow or jolt to the head or a penetrating injury can result in mild to severe disruption of brain function. Other forms of brain injury occur with neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's or Huntington's disease. Stroke can result in significant injury to motor and cognitive skills. Getting the right vitamins through nutrition or supplementation is one way to help treat brain injuries.
Vitamin B3
Vitamin B3, or niacin as it is commonly called, is being used in experiments to treat traumatic brain injuries by Southern Illinois University. Brain injured rats are given nicotinamide, a form of B3. When the animals receive the B3 immediately after injury, it seems to have a protective effect on the brain. Niacin is a water-soluble B vitamin responsible for producing the enzymes NAD and NADP in the body. These enzymes act as catalysts for over 200 other enzymes in the body. Niacin may also play a significant role in cell signaling and repair of DNA damage, according to the Linus Pauling Institute.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids may contribute to recovery from brain injury. According to ScienceDaily.com, omega-3 fatty acids are essential for synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. Deficiency in omega-3 fatty acids can result in ADD, dyslexia, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. DHA, a form of omega-3 fatty acid, is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain's cell membrane. Including omega-3 fatty acids may lead to better recovery from brain injury.
Co-Q-10
According to HDLighthouse.org, the website for Huntington's disease, Co-Q-10 studies have shown that this supplement reduces brain injury in mice. Huntington's disease causes deterioration of the brain cells, causing dysfunction in motor, cognitive and verbal skills. Co-Q-10 demonstrated a trend toward benefit in a large clinical trial of people with Huntington's disease by improving symptoms of Huntington's. In further mouse studies, Co-Q-10 increased brain ATP, a catalyst necessary for normal brain function and decreased markers for free radical injury.
