Improving Brain Health Through Nutrition and Neurotechnology
Abstract:
In the field of sports medicine, brain health has been more subjective. Little has been known if an athlete could impact processing speed to enhance performance and prevent concussions. Research is now showing neurotechnology and nutritional intake should be part of this multimodal approach. This lecture will examine evidence on measuring brain function measurements aiding in concussion diagnosis. It offers personalized treatment, monitors recovery, and emphasizes the importance of nutrition, hydration, supplementation, sleep, exercise, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants for optimal brain function, processing speed and returning to play.
Learning Objectives:
- Analyze the components of a multimodal approach toward improving brain health.
- Describe how personalized treatment plans can aid in monitoring recovery and enhancing brain function for athletes.
- Articulate the importance of nutrition, hydration, supplementation, sleep, exercise, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants in maintaining optimal brain function and processing speed.
- Explain the significance of brain health in sports medicine, particularly how it impacts processing speed, performance enhancement and concussion prevention.
Level:
Essential
Domain(s):
Domain 1: Risk Reduction Wellness and Health Literacy
Domain 4: Therapeutic Intervention
Orthopedic Domain(s):
N/A
CEUs:
1.0 Category A
Keywords:
concussion, hydration, sleep, supplements
In order to earn your CEUs, you must watch the session video in its entirety and complete the assessment.
Course Expiration:
All sessions of the NATA 76th Symposia On-Demand must be completed by October 31, 2025 at 11:59 p.m. CDT.
For full details, refer to the expiration policy on our FAQ page.
Dawn Weatherwax, ATC, LAT, CSCS
Dawn Weatherwax is a Registered/Licensed Dietitian with a specialty in Sports Nutrition and Founder of Sports Nutrition 2Go & Dawn Weatherwax's Sports Nutrition Academy. In addition, she is an Athletic Trainer with a Certification in Strength and Conditioning from The National Strength and Conditioning Association.
Weatherwax brings a comprehensive and unique understanding of the athlete's body, and its nutritional needs, to those interested in achieving specific performance goals and optimal health. She is also the author of The Official Snack Guide for Beleaguered Sports Parents, The Complete Idiot's Guide to Sports Nutrition and The Sports Nutrition Guide for Young Athletes. She has also been featured & on television and magazines including: Good Morning America, MSNBC, Oxygen, Spark and Shape. She is also the main nutrition columnist for Swimming World.