Nutritional Changes in Traumatic Brain Injury

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) stands as a prevalent cause of mortality, intimately linked to complications that significantly influence clinical outcomes. Hyperglycemia, increased catabolism, protein wasting, and increased energy demand emerge as key factors contributing to a poor prognosis following TBI. Gastrointestinal dysfunction, which is common in severe TBI patients, highlights the importance of effective nutritional support. As a result, adequate nutrient management is critical in maintaining cellular homeostasis, lowering mortality, and reducing infectious complications. Early intervention with insulin to mitigate the negative effects of hyperglycemia, such as oxidative stress, inflammatory activation, tissue acidosis, endothelial dysfunction, and blood-brain barrier permeability, as well as protein supplementation and vitamins, are critical in promoting brain damage recovery, enhancing immune function, and preserving body mass. Early understanding and implementation of these nutritional strategies in TBI management can have a significant impact on patient outcomes.