Brain Injury: How Dietary Pattens Impact Long-Term Outcomes

Abstract Purpose of Review Individuals with a history traumatic brain injury (TBI) are at much greater risk for developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to the general population. This review discusses dietary patterns as means addressing modifiable factors following TBI exposure. Evidence-based resources practicing Physiatrists and Brain Injury Medicine specialists pertaining nutrition education counseling also provided. Recent Findings We examined Mediterranean, Dietary Approaches Stop Hypertension, plant-based, ketogenic, intermittent fasting through publications clinical trials systematic reviews. While many reviews had significant positive findings, some were limited by generalizability. Summary there is extensive literature on immediate goals in inpatient setting an acute exposure, discussing nature diet post-acute setting. Fortunately, most individuals exposure survive their initial continue into recovery phase. The scientific supports increased morbidity mortality chronic matched counterparts, notably CVD. A rich fiber nutrients but added sugars, saturated fats, excess calories would likely have greatest related neurologic protection. Future studies needed assess specific impact interventions phase recovery.