From the Research
Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation is a promising adjunctive treatment for post-concussive syndrome, and I recommend taking 1000-3000mg of omega-3 fatty acids daily for at least 3-6 months following a concussion. The potential benefit of omega-3 fatty acids comes from their anti-inflammatory properties and their role in supporting neuronal membrane integrity and function, as suggested by 1. These fatty acids may help reduce neuroinflammation following brain injury and support the repair of damaged neural tissue. However, fish oil should complement standard post-concussion care including physical and cognitive rest, gradual return to activities, and medical supervision. Some key points to consider when taking fish oil supplements include:
- Look for high-quality, purified fish oil supplements to minimize contaminants
- Take with food to reduce digestive discomfort
- Consider enteric-coated capsules if you experience "fishy" burps
- Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement, especially if you're taking blood thinners, as fish oil may increase bleeding risk While research shows promise, fish oil should be viewed as a supportive measure rather than a standalone treatment for post-concussion syndrome, as noted in 2 and 3. It's also important to note that the evidence is still emerging, and more research is needed to fully understand the effects of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation on post-concussive syndrome, as highlighted in 4. Overall, the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation as an adjunctive treatment for post-concussive syndrome is supported by the most recent and highest quality study, 1.