Title:Neuroprotective Role of Nutritional Supplementation in Athletes
Volume: 15
Author(s): Supriya Mishra, Vikram Jeet Singh, Pooja A Chawla and Viney Chawla*
Affiliation:
- Department of Pharmaceutics, University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research, Baba Farid University of Health Sciences, Faridkot-151203, Punjab,India
Keywords:
Neurodegeneration, calcium, oxidative stress, mild traumatic brain injury, nutraceuticals
Abstract: Background: Neurodegenerative disorders belong to different classes of progressive/
chronic conditions that affect the peripheral/central nervous system. It has been shown
through studies that athletes who play sports involving repeated head trauma and sub-concussive
impacts are more likely to experience neurological impairments and neurodegenerative disorders in
the long run
Aims: The aim of the current narrative review article is to provide a summary of various nutraceuticals
that offer promise in the prevention or management of sports-related injuries, especially concussions
and mild traumatic brain injuries.
Methods: This article reviews the various potential nutraceutical agents and their possible mechanisms
in providing a beneficial effect in the injury recovery process. A thorough survey of the literature
was carried out in the relevant databases to identify studies published in recent years. In the
present article, we have also highlighted the major neurological disorders along with the associated
nutraceutical(s) therapy in the management of disorders.
Results: The exact pathological mechanism behind neurodegenerative conditions is complex as
well as idiopathic. However, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress as well as intracellular calcium
overload are some common reasons responsible for the progression of these neurodegenerative
disorders. Owing to the multifaceted effects of nutraceuticals (complementary medicine), these
supplements have gained importance as neuroprotective. These diet-based approaches inhibit different
pathways in a physiological manner without eliciting adverse effects. Food habits and lifestyle
of an individual also affect neurodegeneration.
Conclusion: Studies have shown nutraceuticals (such as resveratrol, omega-3-fatty acids) to be efficacious
in terms of their neuroprotection against several neurodegenerative disorders and to be
used as supplements in the management of traumatic brain injuries. Protection prior to injuries is
needed since concussions or sub-concussive impacts may trigger several pathophysiological responses
or cascades that can lead to long-term complications associated with CNS. Thus, the use of
nutraceuticals as prophylactic treatment for neurological interventions has been proposed.