One of the most common personal injuries in Vancouver, BC is a brain injury. According to the BC Brain Injury Association, approximately 60 new cases of brain injury occurs daily, equaling around 22,000 cases every year. If you take into account more than 180,000 cases of injury survivors in British Columbia, it is safe to say that the province is experiencing something of an epidemic.
If you are suffering from severe brain injury, you can consult with an experienced Vancouver BC law firm to determine if you have a case you can pursue. Associated treatments and therapy for a brain injury can cost you good money, so it is essential to find out if you can file for a claim. While your lawyers focus on fact-finding regarding your case, you can focus on recovering from a brain injury with proper nutrition. To start, here are the food items you should include in your diet to help your recovery:
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate has high levels of antioxidants and magnesium, which can help your brain recover from trauma. Several studies prove that dark chocolates have high oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) or the level of antioxidant activity. It also contains loads of organic compounds such as flavonols and catechins, even more than acai berries and blueberries. Still, it is best to consume dark chocolates in moderation.
Turmeric Root or Powder
This curry spice is widely used in several dishes. Turmeric powder is an excellent source of curcumin, an antioxidant that stimulates the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). This neurotrophic factor triggers neurogenesis or the creation of new brain cells. Since turmeric is a spice, you can add it to any food. Add a pinch on your tea or sprinkle it on your chicken soup.
Fatty Fish
The brain is made up of nearly 60% fat, and half of this fat is omega-3. If you want to supplement your brainpower, do it with fish rich in fatty acids. Besides, the brain uses this omega-3 to rebuild brain cells. It is also an essential component of engaging neuroplasticity. To get the most omega-3 fatty acids to your brain, rotate salmon, sardines, and trout in your diet. Best if you can get a recipe that calls for baking or broiling fish.
Berries
Another brain food that you should include in your diet is berries. If you can snack on strawberries and blueberries, you can help your brain by reducing inflammation and protecting it from further damage. Blueberries are also great for promoting BDNF.
Eggs and Avocados
Eggs are essential sources of choline, a nutrient that promotes the production of acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that helps with memory and mood. It also helps improve overall cognitive function. Avocados have high levels of oleic acid, which helps the brain in processing information. Just imagine making an avocado salad stuffed with eggs, or an omelette with avocado – both would be a big a brain boost!
Red Meat
After an injury, one of the nutrients depleted is zinc. Red meat is an excellent source of zinc. However, you should only have this in moderation since consuming large amounts of red meat can cause other health problems. If in any way, you cannot eat red meat, you can get zinc from squash seeds, legumes, and soybeans. Flaxseeds and squash seeds are also great in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, making them a great inclusion to your brain injury diet.
Recovering from a brain injury is challenging, especially if you have severe symptoms. With the right mindset, a positive environment, and a healthy diet, you can overcome it. It would also be best if you can consult a dietitian to help you with your diet plan.