Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), especially those caused by blast exposures, reveal the sheer complexity and fragility of the human brain. With approximately 86 billion neurons interconnected in vast networks, the brain’s architecture is both intricate and essential for normal function (BrainFacts.org). A severe TBI can potentially damage or decimate millions of these neural connections, leading to cognitive deficits, memory impairment, and loss of motor function. Blast-related TBIs specifically cause a form of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) that strips neurons of their insulating myelin, dramatically reducing their speed of information conduction to as little as 1/100th of that in healthy, insulated neurons.

Additionally, recent research draws parallels between Alzheimer’s disease and TBI-related neuropathology. For example, studies have shown that individuals with Alzheimer’s may experience “silent” seizures deep within the brain—seizures that are not visible through standard diagnostic techniques but likely contribute to cognitive decline (Frontiers in Neurology). Although not yet proven in blast-related TBI cases, it’s logical to infer that veterans with severe TBI could experience similar undetected seizures. This insight opens the door to considering self-intervention techniques to help veterans manage symptoms, especially when seizures go undiagnosed.

At the Blastology Foundation, we do not specifically endorse or oppose medications or treatments, but we emphasize that recovery from severe brain injury is a long-term journey requiring extensive cellular support and time. Even with innovative treatments like stem cell therapy, improvements generally begin to show around six months after treatment, with full potential often taking up to five years. This reality reinforces the importance of patience and perseverance, as well as the use of non-invasive therapies that support natural brain repair and regeneration. Our recommendations reflect the understanding that while recovery is slow, a targeted approach can maximize each veteran’s capacity for healing.

The ketogenic diet, originally developed as a treatment for epilepsy in the early 20th century, has recently gained attention as a potential therapeutic option for blast-related traumatic brain injury (TBI). This high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet shifts the body’s energy source from glucose to ketones, which may provide several benefits for individuals with brain injuries. Ketones offer a more stable energy supply to the brain, which is crucial for those suffering from energy dysregulation in TBI. The diet’s anti-inflammatory effects may help reduce inflammation in the brain, a common and debilitating outcome of blast injuries. Additionally, the ketogenic diet may improve mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress, both of which are vital for brain recovery. While research is ongoing, initial studies suggest that this metabolic shift could improve cognitive function, reduce seizure frequency, and alleviate symptoms such as brain fog and fatigue commonly experienced by those with blast-related TBI. Linked below are several shopping lists and a guide to eating out in restaurants and maintaining a Ketogenic diet. You should consult a Doctor before making and serious dietary changes such as the Ketogenic Diet.

Info on the Ketogenic Diet:

Study(s) that suggests that a ketogenic diet may have a "protective effect" for TBI. 

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK209323/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3219306/

Gut bacteria and keto diet, and anti-seizure properties

https://www.technologynetworks.com/neuroscience/news/gut-bacteria-play-critical-role-in-anti-seizure-effects-of-ketogenic-diet-304407

Neuro-protective effects of ketones/ Ketogenic Diet

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK209323/

Keto on the go

https://www.ruled.me/keto-and-fast-food-on-the-go/

 Keto fast food

https://dietingwell.com/keto-diet-fast-food/

http://mariamindbodyhealth.com/eating-keto-restaurants/

 Keto food replacement chart

https://www.ruled.me/ketogenic-diet-low-carb-cheat-sheet/?mc_cid=b0f26baff3&mc_eid=c171419922

 Keto shopping list #1

https://gallery.mailchimp.com/56aa0042b91113298bfe0eef5/files/04a33dbf-8017-4815-b93a-b694d59fa604/Keto_Grocery_List__85x11_Paperback.pdf?mc_cid=fd59dd164f&mc_eid=397ebe67b3 

Keto shopping list #2

https://gallery.mailchimp.com/56aa0042b91113298bfe0eef5/files/04a33dbf-8017-4815-b93a-b694d59fa604/Keto_Grocery_List__85x11_Paperback.pdf?mc_cid=d763a711ea&mc_eid=0a79355acb