Characterizing supplement use and dietary behaviors in adults with acquired brain injury

Acquired brain injury (ABI) can result in persistent symptoms and lasting disability. Supplements are becoming more popular in patients with chronic symptoms; however, little is known about supplementation and dietary behaviors after ABI.

In this cross-sectional observational study, questionnaires were collected from 211 adults with ABI presenting to outpatient brain injury clinics. The temporality of 54 unique supplements and 15 dietary behaviors were surveyed. Sources of information, reasons for use, side effects, and perceived safety were obtained.

After ABI, 55% of the participants increased supplement utilization by ≥1 supplement, resulting in 74% consuming supplements (3.8±4.1 unique supplements daily); Vitamin D, multivitamins, magnesium, and omega 3- and/or -6 were most commonly consumed. Healthcare professionals were the main source of information, as reported by 69% of the respondents. The primary reason for supplementation was following a recommendation by a healthcare professional (63%). Supplementation was widely considered safe (83%), and most participants (76%) did not experience side effects. The majority of participants (70%) did not adhere to specific dietary behaviors.