Will a Traumatic Brain Injury Give You a Sweet Tooth?
There are many common symptoms of a concussion—fatigue, nausea, increased sensitivity to light and sound, cognitive dysfunction. But one that many people also experience is a change in food preferences or cravings. Surprisingly, many concussion victims find that they are drawn to sweets and foods high in sugar.
The Connection between Sugar and the Brain
When you understand how the brain works, the craving for sugar after a traumatic brain injury or concussion may not seem unexpected. Glucose (from the Greek word for “sweet”) is a type of sugar that our bodies get from our diet and it’s the primary source of fuel for most bodily functions. It is estimated that about 20% of the glucose we take in fuels our brain. The glucose provides energy to the brain, and also facilitates blood flow. Scientists believe that, when a person has sustained a TBI, the body responds with sugar cravings to promote a greater intake of glucose, thereby accelerating recovery of brain health. Consider the findings of one study—increased glucose intake by concussed athletes improved memory and other cognitive functions, whereas increased glucose intake by healthy athletes actually diminished cognitive function.
Does the Type of Sugar Matter?
Yes. Research shows that increased intake of refined sugars can lead to inflammation in the brain. White sugar, candy and milk chocolate will typically be counterproductive. The best sources of sugar are typically fruits and complex carbohydrates, such as rice, whole grains and certain vegetables.
Artificial sweeteners won’t satisfy the craving, either. They don’t generally provide any energy to the body, but merely trick the brain into believing you have had sugar. Studies have actually shown that substituting artificial sweeteners will increase the cravings.
If you’ve had any type of head injury and notice that you’re craving sweets more than you normally do, make an appointment with your primary care physician. Your doctor has the tools to assess whether you’ve suffered a traumatic brain injury, and can either prescribe a regimen of care or refer you to a specialist.
Contact Us to Set Up an Appointment
At Advantage Healthcare Systems, we have extensive experience working successfully with individuals who suffer any type of concussion, TBI or traumatic brain injury. Call us toll-free at 1-877-487-8289 or fill out the form provided below to schedule an assessment. We offer locations across Texas, including Fort Worth, Dallas and San Antonio.
