08/24/2026
Supplements for Concussions
A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury that can occur after a car accident, sports injury, fall, or other trauma to the head. Common symptoms include headaches, dizziness, brain fog, fatigue, light sensitivity, and difficulty concentrating. While proper medical evaluation, time, and rest are the foundation of recovery, nutritional support and supplementation can enhance healing. Research continues to explore whether certain supplements may support brain recovery after an injury and a variety of promising supplements have emerged. Dr. Deryk Harting of Chambers Medical Group, one of the highest rated car accident medical doctor care teams in Florida, discusses supplements for concussions. Here are 3 of those options: creatine monohydrate, omega-3 fatty acids, and magnesium.
1. Creatine Monohydrate
Creatine is best known for its role in athletic performance, but it also plays an important role in brain energy. Following a concussion, the brain experiences a temporary disruption in energy production. Creatine may help by increasing the availability of cellular energy. Research suggests it may help improve symptoms such as cognitive fatigue, headaches, and mental processing difficulties after a traumatic brain injury. Creatine is often considered one of the most effective supplements for recovery.
Potential benefits:
• Increasing brain energy production
• Reducing mental fatigue
• Improving cognition while recovering
• Protecting mitochondrial function
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids (DHA and EPA)
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, are major structural components of brain tissue. Researchers have been interested in their role following a brain injury because of their involvement in cell membrane and neurological function. Animal studies have suggested omega-3s anti-inflammatory properties may help support the brain's response to injury.
Potential benefits:
• Boosting neuronal health
• Maintaining and rebuilding cell membranes
• Supporting inflammatory responses
• Promoting overall brain health
3. Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in hundreds of physiological processes, including nerve signaling and brain cell regeneration. Some research has demonstrated that magnesium supplementation could improve recovery after concussion due to its neuroprotective benefits. Current evidence is weaker than that for creatine or omega-3s, however, magnesium may still be worth considering as traumatic brain injuries often lead to low magnesium levels.
Potential benefits:
• Repairing and regenerating neuronal cells
• Controlling nerve inflammation
• Reducing headache symptoms
• Correcting magnesium deficiencies
Among available options, creatine monohydrate appears to have the strongest potential. Omega-3 fatty acids are promising because of their role in brain structure and function. Magnesium can provide additional support, particularly when deficiency or headache symptoms are present.
As with all supplements, dosing should be discussed with a healthcare professional, particularly for those with kidney disease or taking medications. Supplements should not replace medical care following a concussion or head injury. Complete recovery depends mostly on appropriate evaluation, adequate sleep, hydration, proper nutrition, and a gradual return to physical and cognitive activity.
-- This article is written by Deryk Harting, DC, one of the members of Chambers Medical Group’s team of car accident chiropractors who offer a variety of treatments and therapies ranging from diagnostic testing to various soft tissue therapies for car accidents and injuries in Florida.
