A brain injury occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result when the head suddenly and violently hits an object, or when an object pierces the skull and enters brain tissue. A concussion is temporary unconsciousness caused by a blow to the head. Typically, the worst part of a brain injury or concussion is the time that follows the incident. A variety of symptoms plague the unlucky victim including but not limited to headaches, dizziness, fatigue, anxiety, insomnia, and loss of concentration. Those symptoms, on top of the daily struggle of life, can make it seem like the walls are closing in on us. Most will say the best treatment is prevention... but that doesn't really help if the incident has already occurred. So where do we look for help?
Nutrition is one of the most important aspects of brain health after a concussion or brain injury. Interacting with the necessary nutrients can have a positive impact on your recovery. CBD is known to contain several things that can improve your overall health. The cannabinoid, 2-AG, is believed to work in three ways. First, it reduces the levels of glutamate, a toxic molecule, released after injury. Second, it decreases the amount of free radicals and TNF (a chemical that induces inflammation) after injury. Third, it increases the blood supply to the brain. All three mechanisms are essential for limiting the damage done after the primary injury. Researchers concluded that modulating the endocannabinoid system is an effective way to provide neuroprotection and prevent and reduce brain injury (Fernandez-Lopez, Lizasoain, Moro & Orgado, 2013).
Some former NFL players believe CBD could help millions who suffer brain injuries each year, including the disease encephalopathy, which is caused by repeated concussions. Along with a few other retired players, Jake Plummer felt passionately enough about the benefits of CBD to appear in a public-service campaign titled, "When the Bright Lights Fade."
"I've had friends, guys I played alongside, whose mood changed from night to day. I know others who've replaced hellacious amounts of painkillers with CBD ... and I hope this gets even more guys involved," Plummer said.
I always encourage everyone to make their own decisions based off of their research and personal experiences. However, studies suggest those recovering from a brain injury or concussion may benefit from the use of Cannabis and/or CBD.
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