In this episode, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Michael Lewis, renowned expert in brain health and traumatic brain injury (TBI), and author of the groundbreaking book, When Brains Collide. Dr. Lewis is the founder of the Brain Health Education and Research Institute and BrainCARE. With a military background and extensive experience in traumatic brain injuries, Dr. Lewis has dedicated his career to exploring how omega-3 fish oils can play a vital role in preventing and recovering from concussions, TBI, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Key Discussion Points
1. The Role of Omega-3 Fish Oils in Brain Health
Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), the primary omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, are crucial for maintaining brain structure and function.
Omega-3s are anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective, making them vital in protecting the brain from injury and supporting recovery.
2. High-Dose Omega-3 Fish Oil for Concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
Dr. Lewis emphasizes how high-dose fish oil can help mitigate damage following a concussion or TBI.
Dosing Protocols: In acute brain injury cases, Dr. Lewis recommends significantly higher doses of fish oil (e.g., up to 3-9 grams of combined DHA and EPA per day) to reduce inflammation, promote healing, and restore brain cell membrane integrity.
Case studies demonstrate remarkable improvements in TBI patients, including quicker recovery times, reduced brain fog, and restored cognitive function.
3. Fish Oils for Neurodegeneration and Stroke Prevention
Regular intake of omega-3s is shown to be effective in reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
Omega-3s help prevent stroke by reducing blood clot formation, improving vascular health, and lowering inflammation in brain tissues.
Dr. Lewis advocates for omega-3s as part of a preventive strategy, particularly for aging individuals at higher risk of neurodegenerative conditions.
4. Using Omega-3s as Preventive Medicine
Consistent omega-3 supplementation is not just for recovery—it's crucial for maintaining optimal brain health. Athletes, military personnel, and individuals at risk for head trauma should use omega-3s proactively to strengthen their brain's resilience to injury.
Preventative Dosing: Dr. Lewis suggests a daily intake of at least 2-3 grams of DHA and EPA combined for ongoing brain health and injury prevention.
5. How to Choose a High-Quality Fish Oil
Dr. Lewis explains the criteria for identifying a high-quality fish oil supplement:
Purity: Free from contaminants like heavy metals and toxins.
Potency: Look for a high concentration of DHA and EPA.
Stability: Avoid fish oils that oxidize easily, as rancid oils can be harmful.
Sourcing: Prefer fish oils sourced from wild-caught, sustainably harvested fish.
Importance of third-party testing to ensure the product is safe and effective.
6. Personal Stories and Case Studies
Dr. Lewis shares inspiring stories of patients and athletes who have successfully used omega-3 therapy to recover from brain injuries.
Examples include a football player who recovered from multiple concussions and a stroke survivor who regained cognitive function with high-dose omega-3 supplementation.
7. How to Use Omega-3s After Brain Injury
Immediate supplementation following a brain injury can make a significant difference in recovery outcomes. The sooner omega-3s are introduced post-injury, the better.
Dr. Lewis provides insight into the timing and administration of omega-3 supplements during the acute phase of brain injury treatment.
Recommended Resources:
Dr. Michael Lewis's Website: Brain Health Education and Research Institute: http://www.brainhealtheducation.org/
BrainCARE: BrainCARE Center
When Brains Collide Book
Join us for this enlightening discussion on the powerful benefits of omega-3 fish oils for brain protection, recovery, and overall health. Dr. Michael Lewis's pioneering work is transforming how we approach brain injuries and neurodegeneration, highlighting the critical role that nutrition and supplementation play in maintaining cognitive vitality.
Tune in to learn how you can harness the power of omega-3s for your brain health and optimize your recovery from injury or disease.
BIO
Michael Lewis, MD, MPH, MBA, FACPM, FACN, is a proven leader and expert in the treatment and management of concussions and brain injuries. He also applies his holistic approach to Men's Health and outpatient orthopedics. Upon retiring as a Colonel in the U.S. Army, he founded the nonprofit Brain Health Education and Research Institute and entered private practice focusing on helping patients with chronic concussion issues. His pioneering work in the military and since has helped thousands of people around the world and he is regularly featured in the media, radio, podcasts, webinars, scientific conferences, and television. A lifelong athlete, Dr. Lewis serves on the Pop Warner Youth Football Medical Advisory Board and Board of Directors of National Collegiate Rugby where is also the head of the Medical and Safety Committee. Dr. Lewis is the author of When Brains Collide: What Every Athlete and Parent Should Know About the Prevention and Treatment of Concussions and Head Injuries. He is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and Tulane University School of Medicine. He is board- certified and a Fellow of the American College of Preventive Medicine and American College of Nutrition. He completed post-graduate training at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Johns Hopkins University, and Walter Reed Army Institute of Research.
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