Gut Health Promotes Healing Following a Concussion

Did you know gut and brain health are connected? Many people are surprised to learn that digestive problems are common after a concussion. 

Head trauma activates stress response in the digestive system
Trauma to the brain activates a stress function in the gut which can cause changes in appetite, increased gas and bloating, heartburn, acid reflux, food sensitivity, and irritable bowels. These issues can lead to something called intestinal permeability, or leaky gut, which can cause critical delays in the concussion recovery process.

Fighting inflammation speeds recovery
Avoiding foods that cause inflammation is one way to accelerate concussion recovery.

Try to avoid or limit these foods as much as possible:

• Refined carbohydrates, such as white bread and pastries
• French fries and other deep-fried foods
• Soda and other sugar-sweetened beverages
• Red meat (burgers, steaks) and processed meat (hot dogs, sausage)
• Margarine, shortening, and lard

An anti-inflammatory diet should include plenty of these foods:

• Healthy fats such as olive oil and avocado
• Leafy greens like spinach and kale 
• Nuts and seeds: almonds, walnuts; pumpkin seeds, flax seeds
• Omega-3 rich fish like salmon, mackerel, and tuna
• Fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, cherries, and oranges

If you need help with concussion or post-concussion symptoms, please call us at (317) 848-6000 or request a post-concussion fact sheet here.