Potential natural neuroprotective compounds for concussion
Karin Hosenfeld BS, RD/LD
The attached (and URL) provided discuss natural neuroprotective compounds for concussion. I thought it would be interesting reading for those who are interested since concussion as a topic has come up of late in our journal club meetings. The question might arise “are there any supplements or food components that are protective against concussion?” The most widely studied is fish oil, but if you read the article there are compelling cases for other substances as well. Problem: most of them are not yet well studied (not enough grant $ for the research I would guess!). But, it’s good to keep an eye open for further studies on the compounds mentioned in order to stay abreast of current research.
Stuck at the bench: Potential natural neuroprotective compounds for concussion
Background:
While numerous laboratory studies have searched for neuroprotective
treatment approaches to traumatic brain injury, no therapies have successfully
translated from the bench to the bedside. Concussion is a unique form of brain injury,
in that the current mainstay of treatment focuses on both physical and cognitive
rest. Treatments for concussion are lacking. The concept of neuro-prophylactic
compounds or supplements is also an intriguing one, especially as we are learning
more about the relationship of numerous sub-concussive blows and/or repetitive
concussive impacts and the development of chronic neurodegenerative disease.
The use of dietary supplements and herbal remedies has become more common
place.
Methods:
A literature search was conducted with the objective of identifying and
reviewing the pre-clinical and clinical studies investigating the neuroprotective
properties of a few of the more widely known compounds and supplements.
Results:
There are an abundance of pre-clinical studies demonstrating the
neuroprotective properties of a variety of these compounds and we review some
of those here. While there are an increasing number of well-designed studies
investigating the therapeutic potential of these nutraceutical preparations, the
clinical evidence is still fairly thin.
Conclusion:
There are encouraging results from laboratory studies demonstrating
the multi-mechanistic neuroprotective properties of many naturally occurring
compounds. Similarly, there are some intriguing clinical observational studies that
potentially suggest both acute and chronic neuroprotective effects. Thus, there is a
need for future trials exploring the potential therapeutic benefits of these compounds
in the treatment of traumatic brain injury, particularly concussion.
Karin E. Hosenfeld MS, RD/LD
Registered, Licensed Dietitian
Plano Family YMCA Board Member
Team Dietitian, Allen Americans Professional Hockey
Plano, Texas (214) 704-9179
www.northdallasnutrition.com
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