Using The Wahls Protocol To Improve TBI Recovery
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common condition that can cause long-lasting physical and cognitive impairments. Fortunately, recent research has shown that The Wahls Protocol, a diet and lifestyle approach developed by Dr. Terry Wahls, can be effective in improving TBI recovery outcomes. My nutritionist taught me about The Wahls Protocol about a month after my accident. This way of eating definitely takes some getting use to in the beginning. It takes planning and prepping in order to be successful. My brain health improved drastically once I got my nutrition under control. If going all in is too overwhelming (it very well might be!) start one step at a time. First eliminate some of the foods that are harmful to your brain. Even making small changes will yield huge results!
What is The Wahls Protocol?
The Wahls Protocol is a whole-foods-based diet that emphasizes eating nutrient-dense foods. The plan includes eating fruits, vegetables, and high quality proteins, while avoiding processed foods, sugar, and grains. It also includes lifestyle changes such as stress management, exercise, and adequate sleep.
How Can The Wahls Protocol Improve Traumatic Brain Injury Recovery?
Following the Wahls Protocol can improve TBI recovery outcomes by reducing inflammation in the brain, promoting cellular repair, and providing the nutrients necessary for optimal brain function. The road to brain injury recovery is long and winding. I highly recommend fueling your body with nutritious foods that will increase your odds of a speedier recovery. Once I started following The Wahls Protocol, I found I had more energy, less brain fog, and far less depression and despair. I started feeling more hopeful that I wouldn’t be spending the rest of my life in my home hospital bed eating pudding and coloring all day. The better I felt, the more empowered and motivated I felt. I couldn’t control what had happened to me and a lot of my recovery. I could control how I nourished my body and my brain.
How to Get Started with The Wahls Protocol
Here is a summary of the Wahls Protocol:
- Eliminate processed and refined foods: Avoid all processed and refined foods, sugar, and grains. Focus on eating whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and animal protein.
- Eat a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables: Aim to eat 9 cups of fruits and vegetables per day, including leafy greens, sulfur-rich vegetables (such as broccoli and cauliflower), and deeply colored fruits and vegetables.
- Incorporate healthy fats: Nuts and seeds, coconut oil, olive oil, and fatty fish should be included.
- Eat grass-fed and organic animal protein: Beef, lamb, pork, and poultry, fish and seafood are also good sources of protein.
- Avoid dairy: Dairy can be inflammatory, so it is best to avoid it.
- Consider supplementation: Certain supplements, such as vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, may be beneficial for TBI survivors.
- Practice stress reduction techniques: Stress can worsen autoimmune conditions. Try to incorporate stress-reducing techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep breathing into your daily routine.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise can help improve overall health and reduce inflammation.
Tips for Success for Using The Wahls Protocol to Heal Your Brain
- Start slowly: Making drastic dietary and lifestyle changes can be overwhelming, so it’s important to start slowly and make small changes over time.
- Plan your meals: Planning your meals ahead of time can help ensure that you are getting the nutrients you need and can help you stick to the Wahls Protocol.
- Incorporate exercise: Exercise can help improve brain function and reduce inflammation. Aim for 30 minutes of exercise each day.
- Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact brain function and healing. Incorporating techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing can help reduce stress.
- Seek support: Making lifestyle changes can be challenging, so it’s important to seek support from friends and family. Working with a health coach can also be helpful.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Last Thing You Need to Know About Using The Wahls Protocol to Heal Your Brain
To be successful at following The Wahls Protocol, plan and prepare your meals in advance. This can involve setting aside time each week to create a meal plan, grocery shopping for the necessary ingredients, and prepping meals in advance. By having healthy, nutrient-dense meals readily available, you’ll be less likely to fall back on convenience foods or make unhealthy choices. Additionally, having a support system, such as a friend or family member who is also following the protocol, can provide motivation and accountability to help you stay on track.
