The role of supplementation in traumatic brain injury among athletes and non-athletes population

• Main Authors: Sandra Agnieszka Pilawska (Author), Michał Bado (Author), Michał Goncerz (Author), Patrycja Nowoświat (Author), Krzysztof Bilecki (Author), Paulina Bednarczyk (Author), Ewa Katarzyna Malaka (Author), Weronika Duda (Author), Magdalena Muzyk (Author), Maria Maślankiewicz (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Nicolaus Copernicus University in Toruń, 2024-08-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 10.12775/QS.2024.19.54097; 2450-3118
• Keywords: traumatic brain injury; creatine; omega-3 fatty acids; magnesium; zinc; Sports; GV557-1198.995; Sports medicine; RC1200-1245
• Source: Quality in Sport, Vol 19 (2024)

Introduction: Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is one of the most common causes of death and long-term disability. The consequences following TBI can be persistent and cause life-long implications for survivors. Treatment of TBI may be complex and involve large monetary costs. The frequent injury mechanisms are traffic-related, falls, violence or sport-related accidents. Higher risk of brain injury and its complications indicate that people affected by brain trauma may benefit from the prophylactic and post-traumatic use of certain supplements both in the context of physical performance and in the event of potential injury. Aim of the Study: This narrative review examines the current literature of the role of supplementation before and after TBI and its effects on the patient's outcome. Materials and Methods: A comprehensive search was performed using PubMed and Google Scholar focusing on the literature published up to April 2024. The review included randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, systematic reviews that focused on the use of creatine monohydrate, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium and zinc in TBI and among the general population. Data of pathophysiology and epidemiology of TBI and safety profile of supplements were involved. Results: The evidence indicates that the role of supplementation with creatine, omega-3 PUFAs and zinc is important in mitigating secondary damage after TBI, as well as in protecting against damage if administered before injury. Conclusion: Because of the complex and multifactorial nature of the TBI more studies are required to constitute an effective nutrition-based strategy for reducing the cognitive and behavioral deficits associated with this injury. The evidence supporting multiple dietary components to improve a patient's outcome seems strong and the cost of its implementation is low. A group of particular interest that may benefit additionally are athletes who use dietary supplementation in their daily routine.