These are widely available, but not of uniform quality. Dr. Michael Lewis, thought leader in this area of research, recommends only using fish oils that have been double distilled, and preferably reconstituted in their original triglyceride form.
Here is a link to his site with more explanation and supporting research. Below is an overview of the protocol steps: http://www.brainhealtheducation.org/omega-3-protocol/
STEP 1: Begin with a high quality fish oil supplement—Not all fish oil is the same. The BART Foundation has created a formal partnership with Barlean’s Oils to offer brain injury survivors a discounted rate. Please read below on how to take advantage of the foundation’s discount.
STEP 2: Begin taking your omega-3 softgels as soon as possible following an injury. Sometimes this is immediately following an injury, sometimes it may be weeks, months, or even years after an injury.
STEP 3 (Phase 3 – maintenance): Purchase more omega-3 supplement to continue a MAINTENANCE DOSE that is important to maintain optimal brain health.
Barlean’s Oils, a source of premium quality essential oils, has generously agreed to make its oils available at a steep discount to ABI survivors who find themselves on a tight budget. Details of this unique charitable program, including how one qualifies for the discount, are available from Barlean’s at 1-800-445-FLAX. Be sure to mention “The BART Foundation’s Discount” when you speak with a customer service representative.
NOTE:
Please read our Disclaimer Page again before using this resource guide. There are no definitive, uniformly accepted standards for persons claiming to offer alternative therapies. In some states anyone can hang out a shingle, even without suitable training or credentials, and claim to be a craniosachral worker, neuro-feedback practitioner, nutritionist or other therapist. To address this critical pitfall we have consulted acknowledged thought leaders in each field, followed their guidance, and presented lists of practitioners that are likely to be well qualified.
Even then there are no guarantees. One should seek a frank discussion with each prospective physician or therapist in order to explore their background. How long have they been practicing their specialty? What prior experience do they have in treating patients with brain injuries? Can they offer references or testimonials? Nothing is 100 percent effective, not even aspirin or acetaminophen. With alternative therapies, as with mainstream approaches, there is always an element of chance, luck, randomness. What works brilliantly for one survivor, may not work for another, and we may never know why. All one can do is try one’s best, and hope to be lucky.
We are unable to make specific referrals – not only for liability reasons, but also because we don’t personally know most of the practitioners. Please review their information posted and then call prospects to inquire how they might help your personal condition. Most physicians and therapists will let you know if they feel they can help, or will offer an alternate suggestion.
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