Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is becoming more common and nutrition can play a large role post injury and potentially before. When a TBI occurs, the brain has to rapidly deal with two massive issues: The first is the metabolic insult via glucose metabolism going “offline” thus imparting an energy crisis. The brain loves to use glucose as its primary fuel, but after a TBI the metabolic pathways that are typically used to create energy from glucose are disrupted. The second is the potential opening of the blood brain barrier (BBB) and neuro-inflammation. An impact/ insult to the brain can cause the BBB to become more permeable and allow compounds into the brain that are normally kept out by an intact / functioning BBB. These compounds result in a much higher amount of neuro-inflammation. Nutritional strategies may combat both of these issues. In this lecture, we will discuss the role of ketones via diet and supplementation as a potential intervention.

Understanding the relationship between brain injury and nutritional interventions, especially a ketogenic diet to increase ketone bodies, allows clinicians to determine what is best for the patient and their course of therapy.  Once completed, learners will have thorough understanding of the role of a ketogenic diet / ketones upon brain metabolism related to TBI and basic neurology.