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Articles

26 Oct

Improving Hospital Nutrition

  • By Zach Nasr
  • In Articles, Food and Supplements for Optimal Brain Function
  • 4 comments

Hospitals, Rehabilitation Centers, and Nursing Homes, Please Let Food Be Thy Medicine!

 

For as long as I can remember, hospital food has been a subject of ridicule and jokes. We might laugh at the ridiculousness of being in desperate need of medical care, and then being delivered an unappetizing, low quality slop that couldn’t possibly support the restoration of health and well-being. And unless our loved one or ourselves are personally being served this slop, we might laugh an uncomfortable laugh, write off the situation as incompetence, and move on. But maybe instead of laughing, we should instead acknowledge what may be the most obvious example of our medical system placing profits before people.

While  the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) works with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to create and to continuously update dietary guidelines and policies, these efforts to improve health through nutrition fall incredibly short when it comes to the nutritional practices of  hospitals and nursing homes, and this is no mistake as been has been the case for a very long time without correction.

Patients in hospitals throughout the country are frequently given white bread, processed meats, microwaved vegetables, chemically enhanced and colored gelatin, and other meals and desserts containing a large amount of sugar, corn syrup, or artificial sweeteners.

The scarcity of fresh and healthy ingredients, as well as the overabundance of processed industrial foodstuffs (processed substance with some nutrient value) is deficient in nutrients that patients need to recuperate from sickness, not to mention components that have been linked to disease.3,4 In fact, “the prevalence of malnutrition in hospitalized patients has been estimated at 30%–60%, with up to 69% of patients experiencing a decline in their nutrition status during hospitalization.”5

And these statistics are mostly concerning patients who are still able to eat conventionally, as opposed to those who are unable to eat orally for one reason or another. If hospital food in general does not support the restoration of health, imagine what goes into the processed formulas fed to patients who are completely reliant on liquid or pureed food.

What ingredients are found in typical gastric feeds? 

Given that one of the primary objectives of healthcare is to “maintain health and promote wellbeing,” it’s strange to find out that most commonly used enteral formulas contain several inflammatory or neurodegenerative ingredients.

A patient who is unable to eat orally is unlikely to receive anything other than the typical brands, such as Neocate, EleCare, Boost, Ensure, or Osmolite. These formulas tend to be largely made up of some combination of the following ingredients: corn or glucose syrup, hydrolyzed corn starch, maltodextrin, sodium and calcium caseinates, soy protein isolate, canola oil (or other refined vegetable oils, such as high oleic sunflower oil, corn oil, or modified coconut and/or palm kernel oil), and synthetic vitamins (which are not as easily absorbed by the body as natural ones, and can build up to toxic levels in some individuals).12-17

Yet quality research shows us time and time again that these ingredients contribute to or exacerbate many chronic diseases.

Corn syrup, for example, has been linked to cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, cancer, and high fructose corn syrup is also linked to inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal neoplasia, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and other health problems.20, 21, 22, 23  Soy protein isolate has been associated with endocrine dysfunction, cancer of the pancreas, breast, and thyroid gland tumors; kidney and liver toxicity; and allergic reactions.26 Additionally, calcium caseinate has been linked to heart disease, cancer, digestive discomfort and gut inflammation,27 and canola oil to inflammation and, in a mouse model, memory deficits.28

Despite this (and much more) evidence, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not evaluated these statements. Keep in mind that this is the same FDA that has been investigated for receiving large contributions from pharmaceutical companies. 18, 19

And these feeds are consistently fed to patients for breakfast, lunch, and dinner for months, or even years for some patients! If you have a loved one in hospice or a nursing home who is unable to eat conventionally, I am likely talking about them. In effect, some people are essentially fed fortified glucose syrup or corn starch and vegetable oil as their primary source of nutrition on a daily basis for the remainder of their lives.

Are there healthier alternatives?

You can create your own feed and a few companies now create feeds from ingredients that are much better than what you find in conventional feeds. These products created by these companies don’t have corn and glucose syrup, soy protein isolate, or canola oil. Instead, they contain only a few key ingredients like wild-caught salmon, gluten-free oats, organic produce, beans, and nuts. Plus added vitamins that are far more bioavailable.30,31 A few of my favorite companies who are leading the charge of making pre-made real food gastric feeds accessible to patients are Functional Formularies and Real Food Blends.

Hospitals and other institutional settings do not typically offer these real food choices to patients. But… 

THIS DOES NOT MEAN THEY ARE BEYOND YOUR REACH. 

Families and support teams who effectively advocate for their loved ones have been successful in getting the feeds they prefer or in making their own gastric feeds to be administered.

Enzymes, Gastric Feeds, Soups, and Smoothies 

A gastric feed (also known as tube feed) is a liquid diet that is fed through a tube which bypasses the pharynx and allows for liquid nutrition to be fed into the esophagus or directly into the stomach. This is where the next phase of digestion begins.

Among other reasons, saliva is important because it contains special enzymes, namely amylase, an enzyme that breaks down complex carbohydrates into simple sugars to prepare the food for the next phase of digestion in the stomach. Because we are skipping this step in smoothies or gastric feeds, we are going to want to add digestive enzymes to our gastric feeds or smoothies. For products that are designed to include important enzymes especially for when the first stage of digestion is skipped (like in gastric feeds and smoothies), go to feedabrain.com/enzymes.

It’s worth noting that the nutritional demands of the body when we are rebuilding the nervous system are very similar to our nutritional needs during childhood development. For this reason, in How To Feed a Brain, I provide a Baby Food or Gastric Feed Creation Guide that you can use in making real food gastric feeds and/or baby food at home. You can download this guide and other essential nutritional guides by clicking here.

Blenderized Gastric-Feeds 

You can make your own blenderized gastric feeds using a high speed blender like a Vitamix, Nutribullet, Ninja, or Blendtec Blender. These kinds of blenders can chop up the food at a cellular level.

Even if you can eat conventionally, drinking a smoothie or eating a soup made of fruits and veggies that have already been made ready to absorb is a great way to get a ton of nutrition in an easy to consume package. Just remember that we want to make sure we are still introducing important enzymes when consuming soups or smoothies.

Functional Formularies:

In our quest to improve hospital nutrition, we found another crusader with the exact same mission as us, and also with a very similar story. Robin Gentry McGee has a background in nutrition, and has studied functional medicine for a number a years.

When her father incurred a traumatic brain injury after slipping on black ice, he was left only able to eat through a gastric tube. After being on this liquid feed for nearly a year, Robin made the startling discovery that this “food” product was mostly corn syrup, and chemicals as listed above.

She talked to her doctor of osteopathy, scoured the internet, and looked for any possible alternative that she could to help her father. To her dismay, no alternatives existed at that time. 

Taking Her Family’s Health into Her Own Hands

She began her mission to create a high quality gastric feed that could help her father recover. She succeeded and has been providing “Liquid Hope” to the world for over a decade! She never intended to sell the formula, but so many people came to her wanting this solution that she had created. 

She began her company Functional Formularies in order to help families around the world heal their loved ones using real food. Her formula is a complete formula that addresses all macronutrients and micronutrients. I was astonished that even each individual form of each vitamin was the optimal for absorption and efficacy. 

Click to zoom in on image above

 

Get Functional Formularies here and use FEEDABRAIN at checkout for 10% off.

Real Food Blends:

Another great option for non-vegetarian versions of gastric feed come from none other than Real Food Blends. This is another great example of an amazing family taking their personal health into their own hands, and changing how the game in this country is played.

After a very severe seizure, the son of the creators of this company could no longer swallow food conventionally. Their son was drinking all sorts of synthetic formulas, and was having serious digestive issues and a multitude of other negative side effects…

until they started blending real food.

It wasn’t until they had to go on vacation with their son that they began to create their portable, shelf-stable, real food blends. After a wildly successful Kickstarter campaign, they were able to launch their company that now helps tens of thousands of people across the globe. 

For their full listing of products check out their website HERE, and for their full story, check out the video below. 

The Story of Real Food Blends:

Blenderized Gastric-Feed

You can also make your own blenderized gastric feeds using a high speed blender like a Vitamix, Nutribullet, Ninja, or Blendtec Blender. These kinds of blenders can chop up the food at a cellular level. 

Even if you can eat conventionally, drinking a smoothie or eating a soup made of fruits and veggies that have already been made ready to absorb is a great way to get a ton of nutrition in an easy to consume package.

How to Feed a Brain: Nutrition for Optimal Brain Function and Repair has a step-by- step guide for blenderized feeds and baby food (along with a few other essential guides), which you can download here. 

Here is One of The Blenders We Really Love

Blendtec High Powered Blender 

 

How Do These Feeds Compare?

When finding the best feed, it’s important to know what to look for. This is an excellent video comparison of ingredients done by Veronica Brill from Blenderized RN.

 

What is Cavin’s Preference?

When it comes to nutrient value, my preference is actually not a gastric feed, but a combination of two very functional foods: Ample and BrothMasters. Ample is a high-quality meal replacement shake that contains all the nutrients you need in a single serving, while BrothMasters provides an easy and convenient way to get all the benefits of fresh homemade bone broth without having to make it yourself. Between these two products, we can easily get all the nutrients we need with minimal effort.

If you are looking for an easy and convenient way to provide your loved one with a high-quality gastric feed, then you can simply add AMPLE powder to BrothMasters Broth and mix. This will provide them with all the nutrients they need in a single serving.

AMPLE:

All of AMPLE’s products are amazing meal replacements for people who are eating conventionally and they can also be fed as a gastric feed. They are a nutrient-dense collection of superfoods including a probiotics, soluble and insoluble fiber to feed them, foods that regulate blood sugar, and so much more.

AMPLE is currently my favorite supplemental and low-carb feed!

AMPLE alone is very convenient to be fed (just add water or broth and shake), and can be used in conjunction with other feeds (recommended with BrothMasters). It encourages ketogenic metabolism, which is neuroprotective and promotes healing, while also providing many important nutrients. 

Check out the video below to see Connor’s mission with AMPLE. To learn more about the ingredients, and why they choose these ingredients,  See their full formula here and use the coupon code FEEDABRAIN at check out for a 15% discount. 

AMPLE Meals Founder Connor Explains His Mission:

BrothMasters:

Another company I absolutely love is BrothMasters. Using their bone broth as a base helps to heal leaky gut syndrome (aka intestinal permeability) which will in turn lowers inflammation levels and supports overall health.

While Hippocrates said “All disease begins in the gut,” 

I remind myself that all health begins in the gut.

By supporting digestive health, and using the ingredients that nature provided for us, we are already way on our way to living a healthy and wholesome lifestyle. 

We love their products, and while they are not a complete gastric feed yet, their products are amazing for any paleo or keto household or even if you just love to make delicious home-cooked meals.

My favorite gastric formula for TBI

My favorite ketogenic gastric formula is any BrothMasters broth mixed with AMPLE. This mixture is extremely nutrient rich, providing much of the nutrition needed for optimal brain function and repair.

Click here to learn more about BrothMasters. Use the coupon code FEEDABRAIN for a 15% discount! 

 

An Even Better Rx

Our primary goal is to improve the nutritional status of patients and to supply the building blocks needed for recovery . In conjunction with improving the nutrition that is given to patients, there is another step that can be taken to improve brain health immensely. Research shows us numerous cases that establish high-quality Omega-3s as being very therapeutic after a brain injury. As we talk about in the Omega-3’s and Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment article, high-dose fish oils, particularly those high in DHA, have been shown to powerfully support TBI recovery and neuroprotection.

High-DHA Omega-3s may be the most important supplementation we can take after a brain injury, especially if you or your loved one is receiving a conventional gastric feed formula. With coaching, my clients have had great success in getting the feed and supplementation they want for their loved one.

My passion for helping to get your loved one high-quality nutrition while in or out of the hospital is immense, so please don’t hesitate to reach out for support. I offer one-on-one consultations at feedabrain.com/consult.

 

REFERENCES

  1. World Health Organization. (n.d.). What we do. World Health Organization. Retrieved September 4, 2022, from https://www.who.int/about/what-we-do/   
  2. Dietary guidelines. Food and Nutrition Service U.S. Department of Agriculture. (2015, December 4). Retrieved September 4, 2022, from https://www.fns.usda.gov/dietary-guidelines 
  3. Sukalingam, K., Ganesan, K., Das, S., & Thent, Z. C. (2015). An insight into the harmful effects of soy protein: A review. Clin Ter, 166(3), 131-139. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26152621/ 
  4. Johnson, David A. “Sickeningly Sweet”…. High-Fructose Corn Syrup-Caveat Emptor!. American Journal of Gastroenterology: October 2021 – Volume 116 – Issue 10 – p 1970-1971 https://doi.org/10.14309/ajg.0000000000001335   
  5. Kozeniecki, M., & Fritzshall, R. (2015). Enteral nutrition for adults in the hospital setting. Nutrition in Clinical Practice, 30(5), 634–651. https://doi.org/10.1177/0884533615594012 
  6. Deciphering dysphagia. National Foundation of Swallowing Disorders. Retrieved August 24, 2022, from https://swallowingdisorderfoundation.com/deciphering-dysphagia/ 
  7. Cohen DL, Roffe C, Beavan J, et al. Post-stroke dysphagia: A review and design considerations for future trials. International Journal of Stroke. 2016;11(4):399-411. https://doi.org/10.1177%2F1747493016639057  
  8. Nutrition Support Patient Data. ASPEN | Nutrition Support Patient Data. (n.d.). Retrieved September 4, 2022, from https://www.nutritioncare.org/about_clinical_nutrition/nutrition_support_patient_data_fact_sheet/ 
  9. Mitchell, S. L. (1997). The risk factors and impact on survival of feeding tube placement in nursing home residents with severe cognitive impairment. Archives of Internal Medicine, 157(3), 327. https://doi.org/10.1001/archinte.1997.00440240091014 
  10. Kuo, S., Rhodes, R. L., Mitchell, S. L., et al. (2009). Natural history of feeding-tube use in nursing home residents with advanced dementia. Journal of the American Medical Directors Association, 10(4), 264–270. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jamda.2008.10.010 
  11. Mundi, M. S., Pattinson, A., McMahon, M. T., et al. (2017). Prevalence of home parenteral and Enteral Nutrition in the United States. Nutrition in Clinical Practice, 32(6), 799–805. https://doi.org/10.1177/0884533617718472 
  12. Atta, E. M., Mohamed, N. H., & Silaev, A. A. A. (2017). Antioxidants: An overview on the natural and synthetic types. European Chemical Bulletin, 6(8), 365-375. https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ahmed_Abdelgawad3/publication/321844679_Antioxidants_An_Overview_on_the_Natural_and_Synthetic_Types/links/5b61fa84aca272a2d67af9f4/Antioxidants-An-Overview-on-the-Natural-and-Synthetic-Types.pdf 
  13. Neocate. (n.d.). Duocal protein-Free Energy Medical Food. Neocate. Retrieved August 11, 2022, from https://www.neocate.com/shop/hypoallergenic-formula-and-products/duocal  
  14. EleCare® (for infants). Abbott. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2022, from https://abbottnutrition.com/elecare-for-infants 
  15. Boost® Original Nutritional Drink. BOOST®. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2022, from https://www.boost.com/products/boost-original.
  16.  Ensure® powder. Abbott Nutrition. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2022, from https://nutrition.abbott/au/product/ensure-powder/ingredients  
  17. Osmolite®. Abbott Nutrition. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2022, from https://nutrition.abbott/au/product/osmolite/ingredients  
  18. Hidden conflicts? | science. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2022, from https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/science.361.6397.16  
  19. Affairs, O. of R. (n.d.). Food and Drug Administration employee pleads guilty to conflict. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Retrieved August 11, 2022, from https://www.fda.gov/inspections-compliance-enforcement-and-criminal-investigations/press-releases/food-and-drug-administration-employee-pleads-guilty-conflict-interest 
  20. Wang, Jing; Armour, Tanya; Geiss, Linda S; Engelgau, Michael M. Obesity and diabetes: dual epidemics on the rise. Current Opinion in Endocrinology & Diabetes: April 2005 – Volume 12 – Issue 2 – p 174-180 doi:10.1097/01.med.0000157075.71572.c3 
  21. Christopher E Anderson, Shannon E Whaley, Michael I Goran, Lactose-reduced infant formula with corn syrup solids and obesity risk among participants in the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 2022;, nqac173, https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqac173 
  22. Michael I. Goran, Stanley J. Ulijaszek & Emily E. Ventura (2013) High fructose corn syrup and diabetes prevalence: A global perspective, Global Public Health, 8:1, 55-64, https://doi.org/10.1080/17441692.2012.736257 
  23. Sukalingam, K., Ganesan, K., Das, S., & Thent, Z. C. (2015). An insight into the harmful effects of soy protein: A review. Clin Ter, 166(3), 131-139. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26152621/ [the numbering here is only to keep the numbers following to stay as they are. Please renumber accordingly.]
  24. Sukalingam, K., Ganesan, K., Das, S., & Thent, Z. C. (2015). An insight into the harmful effects of soy protein: A review. Clin Ter, 166(3), 131-139. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26152621/
  25. Yalavarthi, P., Prabhakar, O., & Arun, K. (2020). ROLE OF DIETARY PROTEINS IN CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES. Journal of Advanced Scientific Research, 11(02), 39-44.
  26. Lauretti, E., Praticò, D. Effect of canola oil consumption on memory, synapse and neuropathology in the triple transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease. Sci Rep 7, 17134 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-017-17373-3 
  27. MarketWatch. (2022, August 29). Enteral feeding formulas market [4.3% CAGR] share 2022 key growth drivers, CAGR value, industry revenue and sales channel, growing opportunity and challenges forecast by 2028. MarketWatch. Retrieved September 6, 2022, from https://www.marketwatch.com/press-release/enteral-feeding-formulas-market-43-cagr-share-2022-key-growth-drivers-cagr-value-industry-revenue-and-sales-channel-growing-opportunity-and-challenges-forecast-by-2028-2022-08-29 
  28. Pellico, L. H., Brewer, C. S., & Kovner, C. T. (2009). What newly licensed registered nurses have to say about their first experiences. Nursing Outlook, 57(4), 194–203. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.outlook.2008.09.008   
  29. Anjelica Cappellino, J. D. (2022, May 5). The standard of care for medical malpractice: What you need to know. Expert Institute. Retrieved August 11, 2022, from https://www.expertinstitute.com/resources/insights/standard-care-medical-malpractice-need-know
  30. What is the medical standard of care? – times laws. (n.d.). Retrieved August 11, 2022, from https://timeslaws.com/what-is-the-medical-standard-of-care/ 
  31. Talukder, M. H. K., Nazneen, R., Hossain, M. Z., & Chowdhury, I. J. (1970). Basic ideas on medical ethics. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science, 9(3), 131–135. https://doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v9i3.6467
  32. Ingredients archive. Functional Formularies. (n.d.). Retrieved August 25, 2022, from https://www.functionalformularies.com/ingredients/  
  33. Real food blends nutritional data. Real Food Blends: Meals For People with Feeding Tubes. (2020, April 6). Retrieved August 25, 2022, from https://www.realfoodblends.com/rd-nutritional-information/  

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Zach Nasr
Zach was on his way to being a doctor when a personal health crisis changed all of that. He decided that he wanted to create wellness instead of fight illness. He lost over a 100 lbs through functional nutrition and other natural healing protocols. He has since been sharing his knowledge of nutrition and functional medicine for the last 12 years as a health coach and health educator.

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    Comments

  1. Kathryn Casas
    June 18, 2019

    So…is there a way to use any of these feeds with something else to design a complete feeding bag that a care facility might accept? Haven’t gotten self blending approved. Hoped something else that could be purchased might be.

    Reply
    • Cavin Balaster
      October 25, 2019

      Hi Kathryn,

      I work with clients who have a 100% success rate in getting blenderized feeds approved. Let’s hop on a call. I’ll send you an email. 🙂

      Reply
  2. Elizabeth Glaser
    October 23, 2020

    Hello I am looking for better nutrition for my brother, he has a feeding tube. My brother is currently in the hospital in a stage of coma after his accident resulting in severe TBI on May 9th. The hospital has fought with us on getting him the nutrition he needs to promote healing of his brain.
    It was recommended that I reach out to you for your help.

    Reply
    • Cavin Balaster
      December 9, 2020

      Hi Elizabeth,
      I’m sorry to hear about your brother. I also sustained a severe TBI in May: May 8th. 

      My book has a guide for creating gastric feeds. You can get the book on amazon, and you can download the gastric feed creation guide here: https://feedabrain.com/gastric

      In order to get the hospitals to implement the right treatments, I also work with folks who have a loved one in a medical crisis to navigate a profit driven medical model and to get the best treatments, including IV vitamin therapy and real food feeds. My clients learn how to speak with their medical team in order to get the feeds they choose, the supplements they choose, and often to also get IV nutrient injections, and they are always successful in doing so. If you’re interested, let’s have a conversation to see if we’re a good fit. Initial calls are $250 and that amount will be credited to us working together further, should we decide we’re a good fit. You can fill out this form and schedule a call here: https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/consult

      Looking forward to hearing from you. 🙏

      Reply

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Testimonials

Excellent resource for people wanting to feed their brains!

“Cavin’s story is so inspirational and moving. As a practicing Functional Neurologist that specializes in Post-Concussion Syndrome and having suffered multiple head injuries myself, the information that Cavin has put together based on his experiences is totally spot on.

I love seeing such cutting-edge information on brain health out there in the world. Highly recommended!”

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- Titus Chiu

The very basic concept of good nutrition among all the conflicting advertisements and various “new”

“As a neuro-optometrist who cares for many brain-injured patients experiencing visual challenges that negatively impact the progress of many of their other therapies, Cavin’s book is a god-send! The very basic concept of good nutrition among all the conflicting advertisements and various “new” food plans and diets can be enough to put anyone into a brain fog much less a brain injured survivor! Cavin’s book is straightforward and written from not only personal experience but the validation of so many well-respected contemporary health care researchers and practitioners! I will certainly be recommending this book as a “Survival/Recovery 101” resource for all my patients including those without brain injuries because we all need optimum health and well-being and it starts with proper nourishment! Kudos to Cavin Balaster!”

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- Mary VanHoy

Wonderful!

“Cavin has done an amazing job in all aspects of his life. Overcoming the horrific life threatening accident, and then going on to do whatever he can to help others with his contagious wonderful attitude. This book is an easy to understand fact filled manual for anyone, but especially those who are or are caregivers for a loved one with tbi. I also highly recommend his podcast series.”

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Beautiful inspiring story about relearning how to live after a traumatic experience

“Amazing book and extremely inspiring story. The author is a close friend of mine and we were reunited later in life due to traumatic life experiences. Truly demonstrates the beauty and nature of the human body and the ability to bounce back. If I could rate this 6 stars I would!!!!”

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- Sammy Morrison

Awesome

“I wish I saw this book one year ago. Thanks, Dr. Deborah Zelinsky, for asking (me) to buy it. Thanks, Cavin, for making time to talk to me. I am so happy.”

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- Amazon Customer

Cavin’s Balaster’s How to Feed a Brain is one the best written health nutrition books that I have ever read

“I have a bachelors degree in Nutrition Science. Cavin’s Balaster’s How to Feed a Brain is one the best written health nutrition books that I have ever read. It is evident that through his personal journey with a TBI and many years of research Cavin has gained a great depth of understanding on the biomechanics of nutrition has how it relates to the structure of the brain and nervous system, as well as how all of the body systems intercommunicate with one another. He then takes this complicated knowledge and breaks it down into a concise and comprehensive book. If you or your loved one is suffering from ANY neurological disorder or TBI please read this book.”

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- Ashley Jean Flowers

Very informative

“I enjoyed this book. It was full of practical information. It was easy to understand. I implemented some of the ideas in the book and they have made a positive impact for me. Not only is this book a wealth of knowledge it helps you think outside the box and piece together other ideas to research and helps you understand more about TBI and the way food might help you mitigate symptoms.”

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- Dixie

Fistfuls of exciting brain foods to launch you plus feeding tube powerful nutrition implementation…

“In the hospital and ICU struggles, this book and Cavin’s experience are golden, and if we’d have had this book’s special attention to feeding tube nutrition, my son would be alive today sitting right here along with me saying it was the cod liver oil, the fish oil, and other nutrients able to be fed to him instead of the junk in the pharmacy tubes, that got him past the liver-test results, past the internal bleeding, past the brain difficulties controlling so many response-obstacles back then. Back then, the ‘experts’ in rural hospitals were unwilling to listen, ignored my son’s unexpected turnaround when we used codliver oil transdermally on his sore skin, threatened instead to throw me out, but Cavin has his own proof and his accumulated experience in others’ journeys. Cavin’s boxed areas of notes throughout the book on applying the brain nutrient concepts in feeding tubes are powerful stuff, details to grab onto and run with… hammer them!

And in general his expertise in implementation is unparalleled. His dynamite measuring empowerment of the human in a wonderland of changing everything with ‘fistful’ simplifying potency is the difference between progress and stumbling on techy adjustments in habits.. With this book you are ready to go.”

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- JH Raichyk

Incredibly thorough!

“Incredibly thorough! How to Feed a Brain is so detailed. The author approaches a complex topic with the insight that can only be gained from having had to figure it all out on your own, as he did when he experienced a traumatic brain injury. Super helpful for people with brain injury or those looking to optimize brain health.”

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- T. Davis

I prefer to read about people who have lived recovery

“I have had brain issues for many years. I purchased the Kindle version. I like the idea of reading Cavins book because he has lived through a terrible brain injury and has come back victorious.”

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- T. Riley

A must read for everyone’s health and wellness journey!

“Such an informative and inspiring read! Insight into how optimal nutrients improved Cavin’s own brain recovery make this knowledge-filled read compelling and relatable. The recommendations are easy to understand as well as scientifically-founded – it’s not another fad diet manual. The additional tools and resources provided throughout make it possible for anyone to integrate these enhancements into their nutritional repertoire. Looking forward to more from Cavin and Feed a Brain!!!!!!”

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- Amazon Customer

Five Stars

“Great read and info for anyone suffering from brain trauma.”

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- Laura-Florida

Five Stars

“Great book!! Full of important information for everyone.”

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- Mar

Relentlessly focused examination of TBI and nutrition’s affect on the brain

“Cavin’s journey is such an incredible one. He is singularly focused on examining everything he can about TBI (traumatic brain injury) and relentlessly pursues information about everything that affects the brain, particularly nutrition. If you have a loved one that has survived TBI, this book is a must read.”

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- Patrick R.

Great Information!

“My husband and I (Ryan Cedermark) are so impressed with the research Cavin did when writing this book. If you, a family member or friend has suffered a TBI, concussion or are just looking to be nicer to your brain, then we highly recommend this book! Your brain is only as good as the body’s internal environment and Cavin has done an amazing job on providing the information needed to obtain such!”

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- Elizabeth Gilchrist

Five Stars

“Great read from a remarkable fellow.”

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- John

The Book is both interesting and helpful. Thank you all very much.

“Learning about about Head ingeries. I myself have had a concushion. Thank you.”

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- Scotty

So thankful for this book

“Cavin has been an amazing resource by sharing his first hand experience on living with a brain injury. A must read!”

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- Jennifer Zapp

Excellent book if you want to be vibrant

“Excellent book if you want to be vibrant!!!! Everything you need to know to achieve excellent health overalll….not just your brain! The author’s amazing story from tragedy to good health really inspires me.”

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- Opinions on Everything

An Enlightening Book For Anyone With A Brain

“In 183 pages, Cavin Balaster’s new book, How to Feed A Brain provides an outline and plan for how to maximize one’s brain performance. The “Citation Notes” provide all the scientific and academic documentation for further understanding. The “Additional Resources and Tips” listing takes you to Cavin’s website for more detail than could be covered in 183 pages. Cavin came to this knowledge through the need to recover from a severe traumatic brain injury and he did not keep his lessons learned to himself. This book is enlightening for anyone with a brain. We all want to function optimally, even to take exams, stay dynamic, and make positive contributions to our communities. Bravo Cavin for sharing your lessons learned!”

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- Chandini Bachman

One of the best

“Cavin is a great man. A survivor… And a rock star.
I met him when I was 19, and re-met him later in life, after his accident. He still has this gorgeous understanding of the world that makes me believe in him, and always makes me listen to what he has to say.
When my mom had a stroke last year he was the first person I called. He had so much knowledge about what she was going though and totally understood what I was experiencing as well.
He was the first person I thought of, and hopefully the last I’ll need to.

You’re the best, Mr. B.”

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- Adrien Fox

Five Stars

“Very interesting… “back-to-basics” … the first book I read to the end in years.”

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- Kristin

We can take care of our brains

“I am nearly four years out from my traumatic brain injury and I have been through 100’s of hours of rehabilitation therapy. I have been surprised by how little attention is given to adequate nutrition for recovering from TBI. I’m always looking for further opportunities to recover and so this book fell into the right hands. Cavin outlines the science and reasoning behind the diet he suggests, but the real power in this book comes when he writes, “WE.” WE can give our brains proper nutrition. Now I’m excited to drink smoothies and eat breakfasts that look like dinners! I will recommend this book to my friends.

(I was given a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)”

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- Rachel J.

Feed your brain – read this book

“The author’s story alone is a remarkable account of not just survival, but transcendence of a near-death experience. Cavin went on to become an advocate for survival and survivors of traumatic brain injuries, discovering along the way the key role played by nutrition. But this book is not just for injury survivors. It is for anyone who wants to live (and eat) well.”

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- David L. Butler

I love this book

“I love this book! As someone that deals with an autoimmune condition, I deal with sever brain fog. I’m currently in school and this has had a very negative impact on my learning. I have been looking for something like this to help my brain function better. This book has me thinking clearer, and my memory has improved. I’m eating healthier and overall feeling much better. This book is very easy to follow and also has some great recipes included.”

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- Jennifer Ramirez

Five Stars

“Helpful for those who want to have a brain boost :)”

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- Mark H. Zmudy

I wish I had this book when I suffered my…

“I wish I had this book when I suffered my TBIs 10 years ago, but never too late. Thank Cavin!”

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- SMack

Book that will change how you think about food!

“Very informational and well written book with practical advice on how to eat for better health. Put this on your list of books to recommend for people interested in switching to a healthier lifestyle. It can change your relationship with food by helping you understand how the food you eat affects your brain.”

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- Michelle

Well written, educational, and promotes positive lifestyle changes that can be made today!

“Cavin’s personal experience and humble writing to help educate, not only people who have suffered brain injuries, but anyone interested in the best nutritional advice for optimum brain function is a great introduction to proper nutrition filled with many recommendations of how you can make a changes to your diet immediately. This book provides amazing personal insight related to Cavin’s recovery accompanied with well cited peer reviewed sources throughout the entire book detailing the most recent findings around functional neurology!

I highly recommend this book for anyone interested in learning more about nutrition and how it can impact brain function! As well as anyone willing to challenge themselves TODAY with the recommendations throughout this book!”

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- Andrew Ritter

If you are looking to get the optimum performance out of your brain, get this book now!

“As a brain injury survivor that still deals with extreme light sensitivity, eye issues and other brain related struggles I have found a great diet is a key to brain health! Cavin’s book is a much needed guide to eating for brain health. While you can fill shelves with books that teach you good nutrition, Cavin’s book teaches you how to help your brain with what you eat. This is a much needed addition to the nutrition section! If you are looking to get the optimum performance out of your brain, get this book now! You won’t regret it.”

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- Ben

The best / most practical book for TBI’ers

“Suffered a TBI or just want to improve, this book contains the information you need to blend into your life, and Cavin tells you how. Everything is backed up with scientific evidence. Implementation of this book will change / restore your outlook on life.”

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- Mark

Highly Recommended!

What an incredible journey for Cavin, from a predicted vegetative state, to an author and teacher, informing us how to
feed our brains to optimize our lives. Very informative book and well organized , and written so it is understandable. Love the charts. Thank you Cavin and thanks to your Mother who didn’t give up.

View on Amazon

- Gigi

I prefer to read about people who have lived recovery.

“I have had brain issues for many years. I purchased the Kindle version. I like the idea of reading Cavins book because he has lived through terrible brain injury and has come back victorious.”

View on Amazon

- T. Riley

Must read

“Bought this to learn the best way to feed my son after he sustained a hypoxic brain injury. This book is very informative and the author Cavin is amazing. He had created a lot of resources that are very helpful.”

View on Amazon

- Steele Family

but I do feel better in several ways that just might be related to…

“I cannot overstate how grateful I am to Cavin for having published this book (and launched his podcast) before I needed it.”

View on Amazon

- Sara New Orleans, LA United States

Five Stars

“Very helpful information without being overwhelming.”

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- Amazon Customer

He delivers the information in an easy to read manner

“Cavin’s enthusiasm and drive to help those who need it is unparalleled! He delivers the information in an easy to read manner, no PhD required from the reader. 🙂 Having lived through such trauma himself he has real empathy for other survivors and it shows in the writing. This is a great read for anyone who wants to increase the health of their brain, injury or otherwise! Read it!!!”

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- Delanee

An absolute must for autoimmune sufferers!

“I bought this book because I didn’t want a weightloss diet, but I wanted the most optimal gut/brain food I could find to help with an autoimmune. I subscribe to Cavin’s podcast and another newsletter for gut health which also recommended this book. Also, he’s a personal friend of mine who’s recovery I have witnessed firsthand. Thank you so much for all of the research and your continued dedication to not only help yourself, but for also helping others!”

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- Lauren L. Chemin

A book that keeps on feeding

“Cavin, you are phemomenal! An incredulous journey of a near death accident scripted by an incredible man who chose to share his knowledge of healing his own broken brain. I requested our public library purchase your book because everyone, those with and without brain injuries, should have access to YOUR brain and this book. Thank you for your legacy to mankind!”

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- Fasting Filly

Vital information

“The author is a remarkable and inspirational survivor of traumatic brain injury. His breakthrough recovery through nutrition and holistic health care demonstrates a radical new approach to healing the brain. This is vital information for health care providers and the public.”

View on Amazon

"Armchair Shopper"

His story changes lives…

“As a physical therapist with 30+ years of experience in treating neurological disorders such as traumatic brain injury, I simply could not believe it when Cavin told me the extent of his injuries. His story opened a new door to my awareness of the incredible benefits of proper nutrition, the power of attitude and community to heal anything we have arise in our lives Cavin is an inspiration and a true way-shower for anyone looking to invest in their health and well-being. No matter the state your brain is in, you will benefit from this cutting-edge information and be very glad (and entertained) that you read this fine work.”

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- Melanie Carlone

Great Resource-brain injury not required

“Cavin Balaster knows brain injury as well as any specialist. He survived a horrific accident and came out on the other side stronger than ever. His book, “How To Feed A Brain” details how changing his diet helped him to recover further from the devastating symptoms of brain injury such as fatigue and brain fog. Cavin is able to thoroughly explain complex issues in a simplified manner so the reader does not need a medical degree to understand. The book also includes comprehensive charts to simplify what the body needs and how to provide the necessary foods. “How To Feed A Brain” is a great resource for anyone looking to improve their health through diet, brain injury not required.”

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- Amazon Customer

But I do feel better in several ways that just might be related to…

“I cannot overstate how grateful I am to Cavin for having published this book (and launched his podcast) before I needed it. I am 3.5 months out from a concussion and struggling to recover that final 25% or so of my brain and function. I fully believe that diet and lifestyle can help heal many of our ills, and this book gives me a path forward right now. Gavin’s story is inspiring, and his book is well-researched and clearly written. I am a food geek and so innately understand a lot of his advice — I’m not intimidated by the thought of drastically changing my diet because I know well how to shop and cook for myself — but I so appreciate how his gentle approach and stories about his own struggles with a new diet might help people who would find it all daunting. I am in week 2 of following his advice (and also Dr. Titus Chiu’s BrainSave plan). It’s not an instantaneous miracle cure, but I do feel better in several ways that just might be related to this diet.”

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- Sara

A must read if you care about your brain and…

“A must read if you care about your brain and the assaults on it from environmental factors, including the “standard American diet”, which is really the industrial agriculture diet pushed on us by the government and giant agri-business.”

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- P. Hradkowsky

One of this year’s very best health and wellness books!

“There are many health and wellness books being published daily. Do not miss the opportunity to read one of the best for this year: “How to Feed a Brain” by Cavin Balaster, a true expert on deep brain injury who writes from his personal experiences with a great sense of compassion and humanity.

You will not find a better treatment of this critically important subject. You need not have had brain injury to gain the superbly presented information Cavin provides.

For all of us who care about ourselves, friends and family – – this is a book to read and loan out…. but be careful “How to Feed a Brain” you may not get this excellent read returned!”

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Peter Magurean III

Cavin is a superstar brain injury survivor! He knows…

“Cavin is a superstar brain injury survivor! He knows what works & shares his knowledge with anyone who is hungry for information.”

View on Amazon

 

- Julie J. Castell

Heal Your Brain with Nutrition

“How to Feed a Brain is an important book. It’s the book I’ve been looking for since sustaining multiple concussions in the fall of 2013. I’ve dabbled in and out of gluten, dairy, and (processed) sugar free diets the past few years, but I have never eaten enough nutritious foods. This book has a simple-to-follow guide on daily consumption of produce, meat, and water.

I appreciate how Cavin writes about important concepts, such as leaky gut and glial cells, in a clear and concise manner.

There are a large number of people attempting to recover from brain injuries that are lacking the right information on nutrition. Thanks to Cavin and his team, we have this book now.

I look forward to eating my quality vegetables, proteins, and fats every day now as I know that they will help my brain to heal.

Cavin’s story is inspirational and worth a read on its own.”

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- Jacob

Total game-changer

“Following this way of eating has been a complete game-changer for me. I am 1 year post concussion and thought I had stalled in my recovery. Buy this book, follow the instructions, see RESULTS!”

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- Sharon Lori Parker

Book is great, full of recommended micro nutrient and reason why…

“Book is great, full of recommended micro nutrient and reason why they are important to brain health. But it gets redudant over time when author tried to promote his website and his online shop frequently all over the book. But this is great book nonetheless.”

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- Vekit

My dog was too literal

“Fine book but grossly misunderstood by dog. She ate the pages & her brain is fine. This speaks to the virtue of book’s content.”

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- Lia Kass

This book is a wonderful.

“This book is a wonderful, motivating reference for anyone who wants a healthy and sharp brain at any age.”

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- Ammon B.

Worth the read

“Cavin Balaster is an amazing man with an amazing story. He is an inspiration and his book is a good resource for everyone who has a brain.”

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- T.

Love this book

“Love this book! Still reading and can’t wait to see what else I learn…and I am not brain injured! Cavin has already helped me to take steps to address my food sensitivity…seems to be helping and I am only on day 5! He has also helped me to help a family member who has suffered a stroke. Thank you Cavin, for sharing all your knowledge and hard work with us! This book is for anyone that wants to understand and implement good nutrition with all the latest research to back it up. Highly recommend!”

View on Amazon

- JSB

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feedabrain

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"...an easy-to-implement road map of nutritional changes to support your brain function and repair." -Dr. Mark Hyman, MD

Feed a Brain (Cavin Balaster)

feedabrain

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Sep 15

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Bones are good eats!
.
#marrowbones #pateo #keto #feedabrain #feedabraincookbook #eats

Bones are good eats!
.
#marrowbones #pateo #keto #feedabrain #feedabraincookbook #eats
...

11 0

feedabrain

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Sep 2

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It’s peanut butter jelly time!
This is an addictive and nutritious keto dessert with only 3 ingredients: 
1- Frozen Berries🫐
2- Coconut Oil🥥
3- Peanut Butter 🥜 

It is #lowcarb and #keto, and it has lots of #mctoil in it which is great for #brainhealth!

Try it and let me know what you think!
#feedabrain #eats #ketodessert

It’s peanut butter jelly time!
This is an addictive and nutritious keto dessert with only 3 ingredients:
1- Frozen Berries🫐
2- Coconut Oil🥥
3- Peanut Butter 🥜

It is #lowcarb and #keto, and it has lots of #mctoil in it which is great for #brainhealth!

Try it and let me know what you think!
#feedabrain #eats #ketodessert
...

36 3

feedabrain

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Jul 19

Open
🧠 Attention, Brain Injury Survivors! 🌟

It’s me, Cavin, the Brain Guy, but today, I want to discuss something vital: digestion, leaky gut, and intestinal permeability. Trust me, it's all connected to your well-being and brain health.

I dove into the Leaky Gut 2.0 class I've been raving about, and let me tell you, it was eye-opening.

Here’s what I got right: Leaky gut is incredibly important. In fact, it's the first step in nearly every functional medicine protocol for any health condition. 

Why? The digestive system is our body's primary entry point for nutrients and a major source of inflammation.

Leaky gut, or intestinal permeability, occurs when undigested food particles enter the bloodstream, triggering an immune response and gut inflammation.

It creates a loop that looks like this:

👇An inflamed gut releases inflammatory chemical messengers called cytokines
👇These cytokines cross the blood-brain barrier, inflaming the brain 
👇The brain’s ability to communicate with the gut diminishes 
👇Impairing digestion and making the gut even leakier
👆This permeable gut is even more inflamed, sending us back to point 1

Do you see the loop here? It's a vicious cycle.

The key to breaking this inflammatory loop is to focus on healing the intestinal wall, aka the leaky gut.

And guess what? There are actionable protocols that empower us to optimize our health and function.

Steve shared these protocols and why they work in the class that went live on Saturday. 

If you haven’t checked out this class, now is the time. I’ve still got a 50% discount until July 22.

If you are ready to take control of your gut health and well-being, don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from the Leaky Gut 2.0 class.

Click the link in my bio to get your 50% off discount. 

Stay empowered, y'all! Together, we can heal, optimize, and thrive. 🌱💪

#BrainHealth #LeakyGut #OptimizeYourHealth #Empowerment #guthealth #gutbrain #feedabrain #BrainInjurySurvivors #BrainHealthMatters #FunctionalMedicine #InflammationCycle #HealingFromWithin #GutHealthJourney #HealAndThrive #EmpoweredLiving #GutBrainConnection #HolisticWellness #BreakTheCycle

🧠 Attention, Brain Injury Survivors! 🌟

It’s me, Cavin, the Brain Guy, but today, I want to discuss something vital: digestion, leaky gut, and intestinal permeability. Trust me, it`s all connected to your well-being and brain health.

I dove into the Leaky Gut 2.0 class I`ve been raving about, and let me tell you, it was eye-opening.

Here’s what I got right: Leaky gut is incredibly important. In fact, it`s the first step in nearly every functional medicine protocol for any health condition.

Why? The digestive system is our body`s primary entry point for nutrients and a major source of inflammation.

Leaky gut, or intestinal permeability, occurs when undigested food particles enter the bloodstream, triggering an immune response and gut inflammation.

It creates a loop that looks like this:

👇An inflamed gut releases inflammatory chemical messengers called cytokines
👇These cytokines cross the blood-brain barrier, inflaming the brain
👇The brain’s ability to communicate with the gut diminishes
👇Impairing digestion and making the gut even leakier
👆This permeable gut is even more inflamed, sending us back to point 1

Do you see the loop here? It`s a vicious cycle.

The key to breaking this inflammatory loop is to focus on healing the intestinal wall, aka the leaky gut.

And guess what? There are actionable protocols that empower us to optimize our health and function.

Steve shared these protocols and why they work in the class that went live on Saturday.

If you haven’t checked out this class, now is the time. I’ve still got a 50% discount until July 22.

If you are ready to take control of your gut health and well-being, don`t miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from the Leaky Gut 2.0 class.

Click the link in my bio to get your 50% off discount.

Stay empowered, y`all! Together, we can heal, optimize, and thrive. 🌱💪

#BrainHealth #LeakyGut #OptimizeYourHealth #Empowerment #guthealth #gutbrain #feedabrain #BrainInjurySurvivors #BrainHealthMatters #FunctionalMedicine #InflammationCycle #HealingFromWithin #GutHealthJourney #HealAndThrive #EmpoweredLiving #GutBrainConnection #HolisticWellness #BreakTheCycle
...

11 2

feedabrain

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Jul 17

Open
📢 Attention, everyone! 🎙️ Exciting news is coming your way!

🌱 It's Time to Revisit Leaky Gut: Introducing Leaky Gut 2.0 🌱

We all know that digestion is essential for a healthy brain. After all, we need to effectively digest our food to Feed a Brain.

Join Steve and me in the latest Adventures in Brain Injurty podcast episode as we explore the latest research and Steve's expert insights on leaky gut. We delve into the multifaceted nature of leaky gut syndrome and give you a preview of the Leaky Gut 2.0 Masterclass.

BTW, my discount code for $100 off is still good until July 22. 

Check out the podcast and get access to the course with my discount at the link in my bio. 

Got questions? Leave them in the comments below!

#LeakyGut #Podcast #GutHealth #Wellbeing #feedabrain #digestion #healyourgut #gutbrain #healyourbrain

📢 Attention, everyone! 🎙️ Exciting news is coming your way!

🌱 It`s Time to Revisit Leaky Gut: Introducing Leaky Gut 2.0 🌱

We all know that digestion is essential for a healthy brain. After all, we need to effectively digest our food to Feed a Brain.

Join Steve and me in the latest Adventures in Brain Injurty podcast episode as we explore the latest research and Steve`s expert insights on leaky gut. We delve into the multifaceted nature of leaky gut syndrome and give you a preview of the Leaky Gut 2.0 Masterclass.

BTW, my discount code for $100 off is still good until July 22.

Check out the podcast and get access to the course with my discount at the link in my bio.

Got questions? Leave them in the comments below!

#LeakyGut #Podcast #GutHealth #Wellbeing #feedabrain #digestion #healyourgut #gutbrain #healyourbrain
...

6 1

feedabrain

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Jul 15

Open
We thought we had all the answers to Leaky Gut in 2013.

It turns out, we were wrong.

A leaky gut is much more than tight junction proteins, as shown in the first image.

Swipe right, and you’ll see it involves oxygen concentration, defense chemicals, microbiome, physical barrier, and immune barrier. 

My friend and colleague Steve Wright of SCD Lifestyle and Healthygut.com @healthygutco company released a course 10 years ago about our understanding of leaky gut. 

Leaky Gut 1.0 has positively impacted thousands of folks since it was released, and now it’s been updated to reflect our new understanding. 

Leaky Gut 2.0 represents a paradigm shift in our understanding of gut health and its impact on overall well-being. The latest scientific discoveries have revealed a more comprehensive view of the mechanisms underlying leaky gut syndrome.

And intestinal permeability is associated with just about every chronic condition, including brain injury and cognitive decline.

This is not a course to be missed if you are healing from brain injury or looking to repair cognitive decline. 

Check the new Leaky Gut 2.0 and learn new possibilities for healing and Feeding a Brain to restore balance and promote overall well-being.

The LIVE class starts at 12PM EST TODAY. Get access for only $97. 

Go to the link in my bio for your $100 discount. 

It's ok, if you can't make it today. This discount is good until July 22; you'll have access to the recording.

#feedabrain #healyourgut #leakygut #digestion #sibo #anxiety #TBI #probiotics

We thought we had all the answers to Leaky Gut in 2013.

It turns out, we were wrong.

A leaky gut is much more than tight junction proteins, as shown in the first image.

Swipe right, and you’ll see it involves oxygen concentration, defense chemicals, microbiome, physical barrier, and immune barrier.

My friend and colleague Steve Wright of SCD Lifestyle and Healthygut.com @healthygutco company released a course 10 years ago about our understanding of leaky gut.

Leaky Gut 1.0 has positively impacted thousands of folks since it was released, and now it’s been updated to reflect our new understanding.

Leaky Gut 2.0 represents a paradigm shift in our understanding of gut health and its impact on overall well-being. The latest scientific discoveries have revealed a more comprehensive view of the mechanisms underlying leaky gut syndrome.

And intestinal permeability is associated with just about every chronic condition, including brain injury and cognitive decline.

This is not a course to be missed if you are healing from brain injury or looking to repair cognitive decline.

Check the new Leaky Gut 2.0 and learn new possibilities for healing and Feeding a Brain to restore balance and promote overall well-being.

The LIVE class starts at 12PM EST TODAY. Get access for only $97.

Go to the link in my bio for your $100 discount.

It`s ok, if you can`t make it today. This discount is good until July 22; you`ll have access to the recording.

#feedabrain #healyourgut #leakygut #digestion #sibo #anxiety #TBI #probiotics
...

8 1

feedabrain

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Jul 14

Open
Even in the summer, a comfy bowl of soup is exactly what I’m looking for. And it’s a great way to get collagen-rich bone broth into my diet. 

This is a fantastic gastric feed recipe. Once the ingredients are cooked, throw this in a high-powered blender and feed. 🙂

The best part, it only takes 20 minutes!

Check out the recipe below:

Feed a Brain Soup!

Protein: bone broth and grass-fed ground beef
Fat: tallow and olive oil
Phyto: Fennel, cabbage, zucchini
Ferments: Kimchi
Fun: Horseradish, ginger, turmeric

🔪Slice zucchini, fennel, and cabbage into medium-thickness slices. 
🐄 Add beef tallow to a large pot and turn to medium heat. Add ground beef and brown. 
🍲 Add vegetables to the pot and saute for a few minutes. Grate fresh ginger and turmeric into the pot to taste. 
🦴Add bone broth to the pot, allowing the vegetables to finish cooking as the broth heats.
🥣Spoon the soup into a bowl, garnish with grated horseradish and kimchi. Add salt, pepper, and olive oil to taste. 

Are you looking for easy meals to feed your brain and heal your gut? Let us know in the comments below what meals you’d like recipes for!

Sign up at the link in my bio to receive my Essential Nutrition Guides to learn more about creating gut-healing, brain-fueling meals like this one. 

@brothmasters  @clevelandkitchen 
#feedabrain #eats #gutbrain #brainhealth #functionalnutrition #foodismedicine #keto #ferments #plantbased #paleo

Even in the summer, a comfy bowl of soup is exactly what I’m looking for. And it’s a great way to get collagen-rich bone broth into my diet.

This is a fantastic gastric feed recipe. Once the ingredients are cooked, throw this in a high-powered blender and feed. 🙂

The best part, it only takes 20 minutes!

Check out the recipe below:

Feed a Brain Soup!

Protein: bone broth and grass-fed ground beef
Fat: tallow and olive oil
Phyto: Fennel, cabbage, zucchini
Ferments: Kimchi
Fun: Horseradish, ginger, turmeric

🔪Slice zucchini, fennel, and cabbage into medium-thickness slices.
🐄 Add beef tallow to a large pot and turn to medium heat. Add ground beef and brown.
🍲 Add vegetables to the pot and saute for a few minutes. Grate fresh ginger and turmeric into the pot to taste.
🦴Add bone broth to the pot, allowing the vegetables to finish cooking as the broth heats.
🥣Spoon the soup into a bowl, garnish with grated horseradish and kimchi. Add salt, pepper, and olive oil to taste.

Are you looking for easy meals to feed your brain and heal your gut? Let us know in the comments below what meals you’d like recipes for!

Sign up at the link in my bio to receive my Essential Nutrition Guides to learn more about creating gut-healing, brain-fueling meals like this one.

@brothmasters @clevelandkitchen
#feedabrain #eats #gutbrain #brainhealth #functionalnutrition #foodismedicine #keto #ferments #plantbased #paleo
...

15 3

feedabrain

View

Jul 12

Open
Pasture-raised eggs are an incredible source of brain nutrients, containing 3.5 times the amount of vitamin E, 4 times Vitamin D, 1.5 times the Vitamin A, 8 times beta-Carotene, and 3 times the Omega 3’s of conventional eggs. 

Think about it; one egg is an entire life form in a convenient container. 

So I purchase eggs laid by chickens that spend their lives on a pasture, foraging for their food, spending time in the sunshine, and being able to spread their wings. 

Healthy, happy chickens lead to nutrient-rich eggs for our brains and bodies. 

Make this simple breakfast plate using the recipe below:

Protein: Pasture-Raised eggs
Fat: Grass-fed beef fat (tallow), avocado
Phyto: Yellow squash, jalapeno, green onion, radicchio
Ferments: sauerkraut

🔪Chop vegetables. Melt tallow in a pan; add squash, jalapeno, and white parts of the onion. Saute to the desired doneness. Add to a plate.
🥚Whisk eggs with some melted fat in a bowl. Add eggs to a hot pan and cook; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add eggs to the plate with vegetables.
🥑Slice avocado.
🍽️Garnish with radicchio, green parts of onions, sauerkraut, and avocado. 

Sign up at the link in my bio to receive my Essential Nutrition Guides to learn more about creating gut-healing, brain-fueling meals like this one. 

What's your favorite egg and veggie meal? 

#feedabrain #eats #gutbrain #brainhealth #functionalnutrition #foodismedicine #keto #ferments #plantbased #paleo

Pasture-raised eggs are an incredible source of brain nutrients, containing 3.5 times the amount of vitamin E, 4 times Vitamin D, 1.5 times the Vitamin A, 8 times beta-Carotene, and 3 times the Omega 3’s of conventional eggs.

Think about it; one egg is an entire life form in a convenient container.

So I purchase eggs laid by chickens that spend their lives on a pasture, foraging for their food, spending time in the sunshine, and being able to spread their wings.

Healthy, happy chickens lead to nutrient-rich eggs for our brains and bodies.

Make this simple breakfast plate using the recipe below:

Protein: Pasture-Raised eggs
Fat: Grass-fed beef fat (tallow), avocado
Phyto: Yellow squash, jalapeno, green onion, radicchio
Ferments: sauerkraut

🔪Chop vegetables. Melt tallow in a pan; add squash, jalapeno, and white parts of the onion. Saute to the desired doneness. Add to a plate.
🥚Whisk eggs with some melted fat in a bowl. Add eggs to a hot pan and cook; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Add eggs to the plate with vegetables.
🥑Slice avocado.
🍽️Garnish with radicchio, green parts of onions, sauerkraut, and avocado.

Sign up at the link in my bio to receive my Essential Nutrition Guides to learn more about creating gut-healing, brain-fueling meals like this one.

What`s your favorite egg and veggie meal?

#feedabrain #eats #gutbrain #brainhealth #functionalnutrition #foodismedicine #keto #ferments #plantbased #paleo
...

14 5

feedabrain

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Jul 10

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Quick and simple is my goal when I am in the kitchen. Which is why I developed the Feed a Brain Bowl. A simple template you can follow to make a gut-nourishing, brain-healing meal fast. 

To make a Feed a Brain bowl, you only need a handful of greens, high-quality protein, fat, a rainbow of vegetables (phytonutrients), and some ferments: Protein, fat, phyto, ferments!

Here's how to make the bowl shown here:

Protein: Tuna
Fat: Olive Oil
Phyto: Arugula, golden beet, fennel, and lime
Ferments: Kimchi

🍳Sear the tuna in a pan with beef fat or avocado oil.
🔪Thinly slice golden beet and fennel. Squeeze a lime over the top to make a simple slaw.
🥬Place arugula in the bottom of a bowl. Add tuna, slaw, and ferment of your choice. 
🫒 Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Enjoy! 

Would you like to learn more about creating these tasty and nourishing recipes? 

Go to the link in my bio and sign up to receive my Essential Nutrition Guides.

#feedabrain #foodismedicine #eats #fat #phyto #ferments #gutbrain #brainhealth #keto #paleo #pescatarian #rawfood #functionalnutrition

Quick and simple is my goal when I am in the kitchen. Which is why I developed the Feed a Brain Bowl. A simple template you can follow to make a gut-nourishing, brain-healing meal fast.

To make a Feed a Brain bowl, you only need a handful of greens, high-quality protein, fat, a rainbow of vegetables (phytonutrients), and some ferments: Protein, fat, phyto, ferments!

Here`s how to make the bowl shown here:

Protein: Tuna
Fat: Olive Oil
Phyto: Arugula, golden beet, fennel, and lime
Ferments: Kimchi

🍳Sear the tuna in a pan with beef fat or avocado oil.
🔪Thinly slice golden beet and fennel. Squeeze a lime over the top to make a simple slaw.
🥬Place arugula in the bottom of a bowl. Add tuna, slaw, and ferment of your choice.
🫒 Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper.

Enjoy!

Would you like to learn more about creating these tasty and nourishing recipes?

Go to the link in my bio and sign up to receive my Essential Nutrition Guides.

#feedabrain #foodismedicine #eats #fat #phyto #ferments #gutbrain #brainhealth #keto #paleo #pescatarian #rawfood #functionalnutrition
...

9 0

feedabrain

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Jul 7

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🥳Happy World Chocolate Day! 

🍫I couldn't resist posting about my favorite gut-brain-boosting food, dark chocolate!

👩‍🔬I recently came across a randomized controlled trial that studied the impact of chocolate consumption on mood and gut microbiome diversity.

Study participants who ate 30 grams of 85% dark chocolate daily for three weeks experienced a decrease in negative emotions and an increase in the diversity of gut microbes. Participants who ate 70% dark chocolate or no chocolate at all (the control group) did not experience the same decrease in negative mental states as those who ate 85% dark chocolate. 

The researchers compared the microbiome of study participants in the control group (the no chocolate group) with the microbiome of the participants who ate 85% dark chocolate. They found an increase in the number of butyrate-producing species of microbes in the chocolate group. 

🦠Butyrate is a compound produced primarily by microbes in the colon and has a wide-ranging impact on neurology. Butyrate is involved in epigenetic expression, neurotransmitter regulation, neuroprotection, and anti-inflammatory action, and can be used by neurons as an energy source. 

🧠So what's this mean for your brain and its health? 

Eating dark chocolate, anything 85% or higher, on a daily basis isn't just a tasty treat, it's a great way to nourish the gut and the brain for optimal function and health!

 #gutbrain #brainhealth #eats #feedabrain #foodismedicine #chocolate #WorldChocolateDay #worldchocolateday

🥳Happy World Chocolate Day!

🍫I couldn`t resist posting about my favorite gut-brain-boosting food, dark chocolate!

👩‍🔬I recently came across a randomized controlled trial that studied the impact of chocolate consumption on mood and gut microbiome diversity.

Study participants who ate 30 grams of 85% dark chocolate daily for three weeks experienced a decrease in negative emotions and an increase in the diversity of gut microbes. Participants who ate 70% dark chocolate or no chocolate at all (the control group) did not experience the same decrease in negative mental states as those who ate 85% dark chocolate.

The researchers compared the microbiome of study participants in the control group (the no chocolate group) with the microbiome of the participants who ate 85% dark chocolate. They found an increase in the number of butyrate-producing species of microbes in the chocolate group.

🦠Butyrate is a compound produced primarily by microbes in the colon and has a wide-ranging impact on neurology. Butyrate is involved in epigenetic expression, neurotransmitter regulation, neuroprotection, and anti-inflammatory action, and can be used by neurons as an energy source.

🧠So what`s this mean for your brain and its health?

Eating dark chocolate, anything 85% or higher, on a daily basis isn`t just a tasty treat, it`s a great way to nourish the gut and the brain for optimal function and health!

#gutbrain #brainhealth #eats #feedabrain #foodismedicine #chocolate #WorldChocolateDay #worldchocolateday
...

17 0

feedabrain

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Jul 6

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Salmon is an awesome fish full of healthy fats like DHA, the most important nutrient for brain protection and support. 🍣 

Protein: Wild-Caught Norwegian Salmon
Fat: Olive Oil, Fatty Fish
Phyto: Arugula, fennel, horseradish, beet, kelp
Ferments: Kimchi
Sea Veggies: Kelp (Wild Alaskan Kombu)

15-minute Feed a Bain Salmon Salad (it took more time to write this post 😂)
🥘 Quickly sear salmon in a pan with beef fat or avocado oil. 
🥣 Add arugula to a bowl and top with freshly seared salmon. 
🥕 Using a fine grater, grate horseradish and golden beet over top. 
🔪 Finely chop the leafy ends of the fennel and kelp, and add these to the bowl.
🧂 Garnish with kimchi, drizzle olive oil, and sprinkle salt over top. 

And just like that you're a five-star chef! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐👨‍🍳 

Check out my Essential Nutrition Guides (link in bio) for more information on creating brain-nourishing and gut-healing meals.

@organicgirl @hookinainteasyseafood 
 #feedabrain #eats #brainhealth #gutbrain #foodismedicine

Salmon is an awesome fish full of healthy fats like DHA, the most important nutrient for brain protection and support. 🍣

Protein: Wild-Caught Norwegian Salmon
Fat: Olive Oil, Fatty Fish
Phyto: Arugula, fennel, horseradish, beet, kelp
Ferments: Kimchi
Sea Veggies: Kelp (Wild Alaskan Kombu)

15-minute Feed a Bain Salmon Salad (it took more time to write this post 😂)
🥘 Quickly sear salmon in a pan with beef fat or avocado oil.
🥣 Add arugula to a bowl and top with freshly seared salmon.
🥕 Using a fine grater, grate horseradish and golden beet over top.
🔪 Finely chop the leafy ends of the fennel and kelp, and add these to the bowl.
🧂 Garnish with kimchi, drizzle olive oil, and sprinkle salt over top.

And just like that you`re a five-star chef! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐👨‍🍳

Check out my Essential Nutrition Guides (link in bio) for more information on creating brain-nourishing and gut-healing meals.

@organicgirl @hookinainteasyseafood
#feedabrain #eats #brainhealth #gutbrain #foodismedicine
...

10 1
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