# Adventures in Brain Injury > Empowered Recovery ## Posts - [Ayurvedic Kitchari (Rice and Lentils Stew)](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/kitchari/): A Powerful Healing Food for Digestion and Cleansing Kitchari is a time-honored Ayurvedic dish known for its gentle detoxifying properties and digestive ease. This simple combination of basmati rice (or quinoa) and lentils, cooked with anti-inflammatory spices, supports the body’s natural detoxification while providing nourishing, easily digestible nutrients. Because it is warm, soft, and light on the gut, kitchari is often used in cleansing protocols to help reset digestion, reduce bloating, and promote gut healing. The addition of ghee and digestive spices like cumin, ajwain, and turmeric enhances nutrient absorption and soothes the digestive tract, making it an excellent choice […] - [How to Block Viral Acquisition and Replication](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/virus/): Leveraging functional and clinical nutrition, I will provide a comprehensive explanation of how to effectively support the body with safe and targeted nutrients to prevent viral infection and, in cases of existing infection, inhibit viral replication. To begin, we will examine key research findings on vitamin D. The Efficacy of Vitamin D Against COVID: A study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine showed that vitamin D deficiency is unacceptably common (81%) in patients presenting with COVID-19 infection.  “We observed that only 19% of COVID-19 outpatients had vitamin D levels corresponding to sufficiency (≥30 ng/mL)” This study in The Journal of […] - [Liver Code Smoothie](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/liver-code/): Frozen Liver, Cocoa Powder, and Fennel Blend Liver has earned its reputation as “nature’s multivitamin” for a good reason. It’s packed with essential nutrients like vitamin A, iron, B vitamins, and more, which are vital for brain health, immune support, and overall well-being. Eggs, particularly pasture-raised ones, bring equally impressive benefits to the table. They provide high-quality protein, choline for brain and liver health, and essential fatty acids that support everything from cellular health to cognitive function. While eggs are incredibly nutrient-dense, they aren’t tolerated by everyone. For those who tolerate them well, raw pasture-raised eggs are an excellent way […] - [Feed a Brain Strawberry Beet Smoothie](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/strawberry-beet-smoothie/): Feed a Brain Strawberry Beet Smoothie This Strawberry Beet Smoothie is a quick and easy way you can feed your brain with minimal prep to start your day. Bear in mind, you can replace ingredients that you may not have or may not like very easily using the Feed a Brain Essential Guides. You can easily blend up a mix of ingredients from the FaB Meal Maker Guide to make a quick meal on-the-go. If you choose meat, then I recommend making a savory soup, but eggs can go in a sweet smoothie or a savory soup! Ingredients: 1/2 of […] - [Finding Motivation Within the Impaired Brain](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/finding-motivation/): What are you? Brain Damaged? Yup! What are you? Retarded? Yup! Kids used to insult each other using terms like brain damaged or retarded (do they still do that). These insults are like “stupid”, “ignorant”, or “slow.” Today, I own both of those labels. And… I know that neither say anything about my intelligence. I am VERY brain damaged because. There has been devastating damage inflicted to my brain. I am also retarded. The definition of retarded as an adjective is “held back or hindered.” And some of my abilities, such as my left hand and foot coordination, certainly are. The […] - [The Awesome Power of Adaptation](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/awesome-adaptation/): Meet Faith, a Labrador-Chow happily walking and hopping about on two legs. Faith is a survivor. She was born with healthy hind limbs, but only a single, severely deformed front limb. She was rescued in 2003 by then seventeen-year-old Reuben Stringfellow. As happens with unhealthy newborn pups, Faith was found underneath the weight of her mother who was instinctually attempting to smother her and end her young life. Reuben intervened and “interrupted Nature” that day, bringing her home to be adopted by his mother Jude. Thought to be destined for a short and painful life, her owners were consistently advised […] - [Organ Meat: The Unsung Superfood](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/organ-meat/): Organ Meats are Full of Nutrition! Organ meat was a crucial part of hunter-gatherer diets! Our ancient ancestors wouldn’t even dream of wasting a part of an animal that they had raised or hunted just because it “tastes funny”. They wouldn’t throw out the healthiest parts of the animal because it has “a weird texture”. I get that they taste weird. I’m right there with you! That’s why I usually take them as a supplement the same way you can take fish oil if you don’t like the taste of fish. In this article, I am going to talk about […] - [Podcast 70 - Post-COVID Recovery](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-70/):    Listen on: iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcast, YouTube As you likely know, I have a lot of appreciation for conventional medicine. Especially when it comes to emergency medicine! As my book states “I have gone through my medical records where the name of the head physician who was in charge of saving my life appears at least a hundred times, and I believe that I would be dead – very dead – if not for the expertise and leadership of Dr. Scott D. Weingart, MD. My thanks, gratitude, and appreciation for the work he and his team have done, […] - [Deeply Colored Produce: Unleash the Power of Pigment!](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/deeply-colored/): The Phytonutrient Symphony of Deeply Colored Produce In this post, we will explore the importance of adding deeply colored produce into your diet, understanding how their vibrant colors show us their rich antioxidant content, and uncover the vital role they play in aiding your brain health. These deeply colored foods are absolute heavy hitters when it comes to nutrients that help your brain! As we delve further into our journey of feeding your brain, it becomes more evident that phytonutrients are key players in boosting cognitive function and overall brain health. These phytonutrients found in plants offer a remarkable range […] - [Phytonutrients for Brain Health](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/produce/): In the world of nutrition, phytonutrients are garnering increasing attention for its potential to influence various aspects of human health. And especially when we talk about phytonutrients for brain health. So what are they? Phytonutrients are nutrients found in plants. That’s it! They are the bioactive compounds that contribute to the vibrant colors, flavors, and odors found in fruits, vegetables, herbs, and other plant-based foods. But their benefits re far more than just aesthetics. These compounds have been shown to have a profound impact on health, particularly in terms of their neurological effects. If you’re interested in the nitty gritty, […] - [Podcast 69 - It’s Time to Revisit Leaky Gut: Introducing Leaky Gut 2.0](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-69/): We know how important digestion is to the brain. I mean… we need to effectively digest our food to Feed a Brain.  And you probably know about leaky gut, or intestinal permeability as it’s referred to in the research.  Did you know intestinal permeability is associated with just about every chronic condition. Seriously… just try Googling “intestinal permeability and _____________” (where “_____________” is any chronic condition). Years ago I worked as a researcher on a leaky gut program with my friend Steve Wright, digestion expert and the creator of SCD Lifestyle and HealthyGut.com who you may remember from our podcast […] - [Heal The Gut: 17 Gut-Healing Strategies](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/heal-the-gut/): Our gut health influences everything from our weight, to our mood, to our cognitive ability. It can be the reason for our back pain, the root of our depression, and of course, the cause of our digestive issues. So if you have anxiety… Brain fog… Fatigue… or many other conditions, improving your gut health could be the answer.That’s why testing the health of our gut and then healing our gut is absolutely essential for improving our mental and physical health. After my brain injury, a friend of mine who I have known since I was a teenager reached out to talk about health. She is a […] - [Brain Protection: N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/pab-nac1/): For anyone who puts their brains at risk, we want to provide brain protection and strategies to keep our brains safe from injury. In this post, we’ll talk about how taking N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC) can help protect the brain before and after an injury. I have been very fond of NAC for years. So I have recently been diving back into the research, looking at its safety profile, the efficacy, and organizing things for you all. The idea is to help you to empower yourself by applying this research for brain protection and repair. I’m excited about NAC for many […] - [Leafy Greens and Sulfur-Rich Produce](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/greens-and-sulfur/): Fierce Phytonutrients In our quest for optimal brain function and repair, dark leafy greens and sulfur-rich produce take center stage, offering a bunch of crucial nutrients. These remarkable phytonutrients, derived from plants, provide myriad benefits for our brains, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, better blood flow, and improved cellular function. Among the various kinds of brain boosting foods, we need to understand the great impact that phytonutrients have on our brain’s well-being. Phytonutrients found in dark leafy greens and sulfur-rich produce also exhibit powerful antioxidant properties because it stops harmful free radicals that can damage brain cells. They also possess […] - [Podcast 68 – Harnessing Neuroplasticity to Restore Function with Garrett Salpeter](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-68/): Let’s talk neuroscience!  Who is Garrett Salpeter and why is he on the podcast? I first met Garrett through Dr. Terry Wahls, MD when she gave a presentation at Neufit’s headquarters in Austin, TX. Terry is a friend and colleague whose innovative approach to treating the physical ailments that come along with neurological autoimmune conditions like MS is unparalleled. She is a walking, talking, and bike riding example of the power of nutrition and functional movement in overcoming debilitating conditions. After Terry Wahls’ presentation, she introduced me to Garrett, the owner of Neufit and creator of the Neubie device. He […] - [Podcast 67 - Ketogenic Strategies for Brain Health](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-67/): The prevalence of Alzheimer’s and the unfortunate lack of success with conventional medicine in treating patient’s with Alzheimer’s is disheartening to say the least.  According to the World Health Organization (WHO), globally, about 50 million people have dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia, accounting for 60-70% of cases. The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease increases with age, and it is estimated that about 5-8% of people aged 65 years and older have the disease worldwide! Unfortunately, the success of drug therapy for Alzheimer’s disease has been limited, with no known cure or disease-modifying treatment currently available. […] - [Podcast 66 - The Gut Brain Connection. What are you missing?](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-66/): By now, you probably know a thing or two about how important gut health is to brain health. I remember when I was first learning about this connection, each new discovery blew my mind!​​… but in that way that’s like “oh… that makes so much sense!”Do you realize that the number of neurons that are in our guts are comprable to the number of neurons in our spine! That’s why we experience gut feelings, butterflies in the stomach, and sometimes things are so emotionally challenging that they are “gut-wrenching.”And… as I point out in How To Feed a Brain, “about 90 percent of the body’s total […] - [Podcast 65 - Nutrition and Supplement Strategies for Neuroprotection](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-65/): Dominic D’Agostino, Ph.D., is a tenured Associate Professor at the University of South Florida (USF) Morsani College of Medicine in the Department of Molecular Pharmacology and Physiology. He teaches medical neuroscience, medical physiology, nutrition and neuropharmacology. He is also a research scientist at the Institute for Human and Machine Cognition (IHMC). His primary research focuses on developing and testing nutritional and metabolic-based therapies for a variety of disease states and advancing the use of these therapies into human clinical applications.  Resources: Links Ketonutrition.org Metabolic Link Podcast Functional Nutrition Training Feed a Brain Omega 3s and TBI IFOS (the International […] - [Omega-3's and Traumatic Brain Injury Treatment](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/omega/): Want the takeaways on omega-3s and blood thinning? Read the TLDR of the research below. Omega-3’s and a Boy in a Coma Omega-3s have been used in humans to treat traumatic brain injury. One such study in the American Journal of Emergency Medicine presents a case study about a teenager who suffered a severe TBI in 2010. Like me, he was diagnosed with a diffuse axonal injury with an initial Glasgow Coma Score of 3, which is the lowest possible score (no response to any stimuli, but still alive). Thought to be in a permanent vegetative state, he was given […] - [How to Modulate Pain](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/pain/): What if I told you that pain is not what you think it is?  What if I told you that​​ pain pathways are malleable?  What if I told you that painful stimuli was not an input TO the brain, but that pain is an output FROM the brain?  What if I explained this while in an ice bath?  Current neurology shows us that our perception of pain comes from our limbic systems.  And… we are prewired to avoid what we perceive as pain.  When we put our hand on a hot stove, for example, the sensory input doesn’t even need […] - [Podcast 64 - Airway Dentistry for Healthy and Happy Humans with Dr. Scott Solomons, DDS](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-64/): I’ve met a lot of brilliant people in my adventures… and Scott is no exception (which is why he’s on the podcast 😂). This episode will teach you so many of the basics of being a healthy human being. Basics that are simple, yet most people THINK they already KNOW the basics (this is a trap that keeps people from learning). Most people THINK they already KNOW the basics of being a healthy human being, but the fact is that the actual simple changes that promote more happy and healthy humans are often hidden. And these simple changes are just that… dead simple. Scott is a […] - [Podcast 63 - Health, Medical Empowerment, and Confidence with Elle Russ (EXPLICIT)](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-63/): Meet my friend, Elle. Like me, she also encountered a debilitating condition which she empowered and educated herself to overcome. She is one of my favorite humans and she rocks her life. She is as free, empowered, and bad ass as they come, and I relate with her in so many ways. Elle Russ is the bestselling author Confident of As Fu*k and The Paleo Thyroid Solution. She is a TV-film writer, master coach, and the host of The Elle Russ Show. You can learn more about her at ElleRuss.com. In this conversation, we talk about all sorts of things, […] - [Podcast 62 - Brain Deficits in Children and Adults with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia and Other Neurodevelopmental Disorders with Dr. Robert Melillo.](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-62/): Dr. Robert Melillo is an innovator when it comes to our understanding of brain imbalances and childhood brain development.  I met Dr. Melillo over the phone in 2018 and we have been in contact over the years. In 2019, when I spoke at IAFNR in Las Vegas we finally got to meet in person.  He is one of the world’s most sought after and respected experts in Developmental Functional Neurology, brain imbalances, and hemispheric integration, and has been successful in diagnosing and correcting most brain based behavioral problems and learning disabilities.  He is also a successful entrepreneur in developing […] - [An Intro to the Neurology of Vision 🧠 👁](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/neurology-vision/) - [So... I got a puppy... 🐶](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/puppy/): Do you like puppies? Me too! Especially this guy (the one in the middle).He’s not gonna stay a puppy, but right now, he’s only 2 months old and I already have him pretty well trained to be with me in public and in my travels. He’s so awesome!While I’ve been training dogs for quite some time, I have never trained a dog from a puppy and I am beyond excited to do so!His mom is the dog of some amazing friends, so I have known this puppy since before he was even born!So what’s his name?If you know much about […] - [A Year of TRUTH and LOVE. A Year of LOVE and LIGHT](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/2022/): This year is not a year of censorship and divisiveness.YOU ARE ALL WELCOME! With open arms and love in our hearts, we step into a new year… a new perspective… a new consciousness. All the pain we have witnessed in the hearts of good people who are trying to “do the right thing”… All of the fear, outrage, and judgment of the atrocities that we have all witnessed… All the injuries and deaths that are correlated with the man-made virus that even MSN says was likely leaked from a Wuhan lab. All the injuries and deaths that are correlated with the magic […] - [EMPOWERMENT TOOLS: How to see what the internet looked like in the past.](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/et1/) - [How to Create Beauty in The World](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/create-beauty/): The world can be so beautiful.  The world can be so ugly.  And our perception has so much power.  It is in the way we perceive and relate with the world where she shows us her beauty or her ugliness.  When we express our perceptions in a way that outlines and highlights the beauty that we see…   rather than by criticizing what we would like to see changed…  we allow others to see their own beauty and to recognize the aspects that are not congruent.   And when we see them in their light… When we see people as their beautiful […] - [Podcast 61 - A Functional Medicine Approach to Cognitive Decline with Amylee Amos MS, RDN, IFMCP](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-61/): Amylee Amos of The Amos Institute When it comes to supporting the nervous system, whether it be brain injury, brain disease, brain degeneration, cognitive decline, or other neurological condition, the actual support for the nervous system is basically universal. And this is one of the many reasons why I am so excited to be interviewing Amylee Amos of the Amos Institute.  For Amylee the devastation of Alzheimer’s disease is very personal. For twelve long years, Amylee witnessed the immense suffering of her Nana, the grandmother after whom she is named, as she battled Alzheimer’s. This disease not only took the […] - [Podcast 60 - A Better Brain Through Nutrition with Julia Rucklidge, PhD](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-60/): It is widely agreed that nutrition is so important to our overall health and wellbeing. But because research on nutrition is not expected to culminate into the development and production of a patentable and marketable product, there is little money behind research on nutrition and supplementation. This is why the work of Julia Rucklidge, PhD is so important! Julia has been working along side Dr. Bonnie Kaplan in been investigating the role of micronutrients in mental illness. Her interest in nutrition and mental illness grew out of her own research showing poor outcomes for children with psychiatric illness despite conventional […] - [Growth, Freedom, Ease, and Value](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/dis-ease/): Disease is never healthy.  And… health is not the opposite of disease.  You can be in a state of disease BECAUSE you are struggling to be healthy… or wealthy… or right.  Dis-ease comes from the prefix Dis: lack, without, away from…  A lack of what?  A lack of Ease: comfort, tranquility, pleasure, wellbeing.  It is hard to live an awesome life in a state of dis-ease.  And it’s so easy when it’s easy.  Sometimes, life is made harder for humans in order to protect a reputation, a story, a nation, a government, a family name, a certain amount of money, […] - [Episode 59 - Essential Oils to Boost the Brain with Jodi Cohen](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/episode-59/): 👃🧠 Our sense of smell is an extremely powerful way to affect the nervous system. This is why I’m very excited to be interviewing Jodi Cohen about essential oils. Jodi is a bestselling author, award-winning journalist, functional practitioner, and founder of Vibrant Blue Oils.   She has helped over 50,000 clients heal from brain related challenges, including anxiety, insomnia, and autoimmunity using her combined training in nutritional therapy and aromatherapy.   She has been seen in The New York Times, Wellness Mama, Elephant Journal and numerous publications.   For the past ten years, she has lectured at wellness centers, conferences, […] - [Podcast 58 - How Hormonal Changes Affect our Brain in both Women and Men](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-58/): Brain injury can do a lot of damage… including the dysregulation of our hormones leading to sleep disturbances, emotional mood swings, changes in libido, and unhealthy weight gain in all sexes. This is why I’m super excited to be interviewing my friend Dr. Anna Cabeca, DO, FACOG, a 3x board certified OBGYN who is absolutely brilliant when it comes to hormones.    Dr. Anna has worked with thousands of women one-on-one to help them understand and improve their health and manage their hormones. In addition to her academic and clinical experience, has been touched by brain injury and PTSD in […] - [How to Wash a Brain](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/wash-a-brain/): We are all brainwashed. Most brain washing services are eagerly provided free of charge. I used to enjoy the ease and comfort of allowing these services to wash my brain for me. But after sustaining a severe traumatic brain injury, I needed to find what was most effective in my healing. While searching far and wide, I realized that information from the mainstream health narrative was not helping. I have since recognized the power and importance of my own mind and have been cleaning my brain myself for many years now. If you like the idea of self empowerment and […] - [Episode 57 - Fixing the Brain with Dr. Tom O'Bryan](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-57/): Fixing the Brain with Dr. Tom O’Bryan The brain is one of the most complex organs in the human body, and most of us are regularly exposed to toxins that can negatively affect the brain. so it’s pretty important we equip ourselves with knowledge on how to reduce toxic exposure and to improve brain function and longevity. This is why I’m very excited to have Dr. Tom O’Bryan, author of “You Can Fix Your Brain,” on the podcast. “You have to have an anti-inflammatory lifestyle to heal a damaged brain” –Dr. Tom O’Bryan. In this episode, we cover many of […] - [Episode 56 - 4 Components of Successful Viral Treatment with Alex Vasquez, DO, DC, ND](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-56/): This is the third and final part of a three part series of podcasts with Dr. Alex Vasquez, DO, ND, DC. Be sure to check out the first and second episode with Dr. V as well. Dr. Vasquez is the most prolific human I know. He holds 3 different doctorates and is on the board of The Institute for Functional Medicine.  In this final part of my interview with Dr. Vasquez, we talk about Dr. V’s 4 part protocol for the treatment and prevention of viruses… including corona viruses.  We talk about several supplements, herbs, and natural compounds that can […] - [How Psychology and Nutrition Impact Recovery: Wanna Get Fat](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/how-psychology-nutrition-impact-recovery/): After waking to a nurse cleaning my tracheostomy and NG tube, a clinical psychologist entered my room. “Hi, Cavin. My name is Holly. It is my job to help you cope through this difficult time.” Noticing the tubes protruding from my nose and throat, she said “I can see that you can’t talk. That must be difficult.” While it sounded scripted, the sentiment made a difference. “Can you write?” She asked, and I nodded. Handing me pen and paper, she said “Great! Do you have any goals when you leave here?” “I WANNA GET FAT WHEN I’M BETTER.” I wrote. […] - [Empowerment is Required for Recovery: Yes, You Will](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/empowerment-is-required-for-recovery/): I remember a young MD entering my room, a line of residents following behind him. He carried himself with an unshakable confidence and ego towards anyone without letters after a name that would rival his own. With his chest inflated proudly, he took a look at my chart and then looked to me to ask “What did you used to do before this?” I still could not talk, so I wrote “I used to play music and bartend.” I remember him giving me a quick assessment, and then looking towards the line of students that had crowded into my room. […] - [Adjusting to Tracheostomy: Silence of the Lambs](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/silence-of-the-lambs/): I woke up in an unfamiliar room with no memory of what I was doing there. I opened my mouth in an attempt to speak, but no air came out. The only sound I heard was the hissing of air through a straw that protruded from my neck. My abilities were being replaced by artificial plumbing that kept me alive. And Asian nurse wearing turquoise scrubs appeared by my side. “Hi,Cavin. My name is Joy.” She spoke warmly as she inspected the cyborg breathing apparatus on my neck. The entire inside of my throat itched unbearably. As frustrating as it was […] - [Transferring Hospitals after TBI: Out of the Pan](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/transferring-hospitals-after-tbi/): My half flaccid and half spastic body was transferred to a cot. I was wheeled out of the room, down the hall until we reached the elevators that my friends and family had used for 6 weeks. The doors opened and I was wheeled through the lobby. The vibrant colors shined in the sunlight as we exited the building onto the street. Until this moment I had not been outside with the sun in 44 days. The back doors of an ambulance transport swung open, and I was lifted into the vehicle. Everything was surreal. I felt like I was […] - [Finding the Right Rehabilitation Hospital: The Hands of the Clock](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/finding-the-right-rehabilitation-hospital/): Word that I had stood had travelled from therapists, nurses, doctors, and then to the social worker who I was assigned to. “This is a trauma hospital,” she explained to my mother, “and there is very little that we can do for him surrounding therapy.” My mom was preparing for bad news to follow. “I think it is time for him to be transferred to a hospital that is setup to provide better rehabilitation.” Relief washed over her. “I’m going to put in the paperwork for him to be transferred to Bellevue.” While it is a good hospital, my mom […] - [My First Physical Therapy Experience: The Stand](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/my-first-physical-therapy-experience/): Atrophy refers to the partial or complete wasting away of a part of the body commonly due to prolonged inactivity. My muscles had withered from not being used for months.  I weighed into the hospital at 172 lbs in early May. Now, five weeks later, I was 139 lbs. I had lost 33 lbs.  I was weak… Very weak! When I was placed in a chair I would slide down it. I had no strength to even SIT without assistance.  I couldn’t eat or walk, and my left hand was rendered useless. It scared me that I would not regain […] - [Dyspraxia and Gastric Feed: Truth is Hard to Swallow](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/dyspraxia-and-gastric-feed/): My next memory takes place during the day. My mother sat in a chair next to my inclined hospital bed. A pretty brunette in her mid-20s wheeled a cart carrying some sort of electronic equipment cabled to a computer monitor towards me. “Hi, Alicia.” My mother said warmly. Although she had worked with me before, I had no memory of ever meeting her. “Hi, Cavin. Welcome back.” She sat by the side of the hospital bed and pressed a button that spun a motor to adjust the position of the bed to sit me more upright. I did not possess […] - [Episode 55 - The Politics of a Pandemic with Alex Vasquez, DO, DC, ND](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-55/): This is the second in a series of podcasts with Dr. Alex Vasquez, DO, ND, DC. Be sure to check out the first episode with Dr. V, and after you finish this one, check out listen to the next one! Dr. Vasquez is the most prolific human I know. He is a doctor of osteopathic medicine, a doctor of naturopathic medicine, and a doctor of chiropractic medicine. He is on the board of The Institute for Functional Medicine, he has published over 300 articles in well-respected medical journals, and he has written over 35 textbooks. This is part two of […] - [Vulnerability and Fear in The Hospital: My Next Memories](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/next-memories/): My next memory takes place in a white walled room with no windows. A calendar hung on the wall that was opened in June. A bland watercolor of a boat on a dock was pictured above the 30 numbered days below. I was under the impression that I was in Texas. I remember thinking to myself, “where in Texas might a calendar such as this be displayed in a hospital?” and the memory fades. Next I remember finding myself in a small bed in a large room. A curtain surrounded me, but there were other patients who I could hear […] - [My First Memories Post Injury: Memory Bank Deposit](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/my-first-memories-post-injury/): “Memory is deceptive because it is colored by today’s events.”– Albert Einstein Memory is indeed deceptive. A memory is influenced, not only by events that occurred since its creation, but also by the state that one is in when creating the original memory. Because this story is of my recovery following a severe traumatic brain injury, the reality is that my brain was freshly damaged during the time that these memories were being created.  Eric Kandel, one of the three recipients of the 2000 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine for his research on the physiological basis of memory storage […] - [Breathing Problems After TBI: Take My Breath Away](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/breathing-problems-after-tbi/): It was Saturday, June 4th, 2011 and I was in the stepdown unit at Elmhurst hospital in Queens, New York, almost one month after sustaining a severe TBI [traumatic brain injury] that left me comatose for 12 days. The emergency department was bustling with people struggling to survive gunshots, car accidents, violence, and overdoses, and through a restricted airway caused from prolonged intubation in the prior month, I couldn’t breathe. The nurse kept calling for the attending physician to check on my situation, but the emergency department was so busy that he sent a resident to check on me. After […] - [Brain Injury Confusion and Disorientation: "Happy Thanksgiving"… in May?!](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/brain-injury-confusion-and-disorientation/): A video was taken on May 30th, 2011. I was originally extubated (taken off of a respirator) on May 20th after 12 days in a coma. I don’t remember anything, including this video, in between those comas. In this video you can hear how difficult it is for me to breathe. It only got worse. It is bit embarrassing how delirious and confused I ways. Also, notice how I’m squinting one eye? That is because I saw double. The images that I saw from each of my eyes was clear, but they did not line up correctly. Today, some of […] - [Coming to Consciousness After a 12 Day Coma: Lights, Coma, Action!](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/coming-to-consciousness-after-a-12-day-coma/): Friday, May 20th, 2011: Since she had been told to do so, my mom was there each day to sing and to talk to me as if I was present, because, on some level, I was. She put a ball in my hand and instructed me to squeeze, explaining what I would need to do to get better… And I squeezed. I was becoming more alert each day. Late after the sun sunk, Jami approached the Roosevelt exit off of the Brooklyn Queens Expressway and called to tell her that she was almost there to pick her up, but because […] - [Episode 54 - What COVID-19 is like for an ER Nurse with 42 years experience at 2nd hardest hit hospital in NYC](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-54/): No matter where we turn these days, COVID-19 is impacting communities worldwide. The challenges brought by this pandemic have taken a significant toll on lives, our society, and economy. Luckily, we have heroes and frontline “soldiers” fighting to combat this coronavirus. I’m very glad we have the chance to speak with one of those ‘unsung heroes’ of today – Laura Bedell, RN.  Laura Bedell has been an ER and Critical Care Nurse in New York City for 42 years. She currently works at New York Presbyterian in Queens, now the second-hardest hit hospital in America. She is strong, thoughtful, and […] - [My Diffuse Axonal Injury Diagnosis (DAI): Just Nod If You Can Hear Me](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/my-diffuse-axonal-injury-diagnosis-dai/): The next email was written on the morning of Friday the 13th, 2011. Sent: Fri, May 13, 2011 7:09 amSubject: Cavin Update Friday May 13th Hi All, Just wanted to give you an update. When I arrived at the hospital yesterday, Cavin was restless and showing signs of arousal. I put my hand in his and asked him to squeeze it if he could hear me… he did. I asked him to hold up 2 fingers… with delayed response he did, same with wiggling some toes. He still hasn’t opened his eyes, but that is partially due to the sedation […] - [The Initial CT Scans of My Brain After Injury: Shake, Rattle, and Roll!](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/initial-ct-scans-of-my-brain-after-injury/): MAY 10. 2011: SHAKE, RATTLE, AND ROLL! The morning started with My mom’s phone alarm shaking her from her terrifying dream. For a few seconds a false relief peeped into her head. “It’s just a dream,” she thought. This brief moment of calm before the storm of anxiety and fear was the only moment of peace that she would have for the rest of the day. Her reality was just as scary as her nightmare had been. Her heart raced and the cortisol pumped through her veins as she got dressed and made her way to the hospital to spend […] - [TBI Anniversary Reflections: Nine Years Later](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/tbi-anniversary-reflections/): Last night, the sun set, closing out the 9th year that I had been alive since briefly departing. 9 years ago today, a fall from a rooftop water tower scaffolding left me in a coma for 12 days before serious complications arose with the need to induce a second coma. If I were to do it over again, would I have stayed home on that fateful day? Absolutely not. It’s all good. Many doors have slammed shut…and other doors have swung wide open. It was painful and powerful. And through it, my mission has become clear. I look at all […] - [Empowerment Series: Inspiring Interviews for Personal Power](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/empowerment-series/): In order to empower people during these interesting times. I’m sharing tools and interviewing experts everyday to share their empowering perspectives.       - [Episode 53 - AntiViral Nutrition with Dr. Alex Vasquez](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-53/): This is the first in a series of podcasts with Dr. Alex Vasquez, OD, ND, DC. Be sure to check out part 2 and part 3! Since COVID-19 has been shaking up the globe, people have been thrust into a state of confusion, uncertainty, and of loss of control. These ingredients create a perfect recipe for fear and disempowerment. That is why I have been interviewing somebody everyday on my Personal Facebook Page for their very qualified perspective on the current situation.  I have a very special interview for y’all today because this interview is probably with the most qualified […] - [Episode 52 - More for Your Mitochondria](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-52/): In 2010, Dr. Terry Wahls’ published her first book, Minding My Mitochondria. In 2014 she published The Wahls Protocol. And she just released the new revised Wahls Protocol with even more for your mitochondria!  This brilliant souls’ work has truly been revolutionary for me and it’s always a pleasure to have her on the show. Dr. Wahls is a classically trained medical doctor who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in 2000. MS is a neurodegenerative disease in which the communication of the nervous system is disrupted and progressively deteriorates.  As Terry went to highly regarded conventional medical centers and […] - [Episode 51 - Your Best Sleep Ever!](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-51/): Meet my friend, Misty Williams. Misty has had quite a journey with her health and she has become an amazing advocate and guide for women who are trying to navigate their way to health. Misty spent years struggling to reclaim her health and vitality.  After a botched surgery to remove an endometrial cyst, debilitating brain fog, extreme fatigue, tanked hormones, unexplained weight gain (45 lbs in 4 months!), hypothyroidism and thyroid nodules, and premature ovarian failure, Misty came home from a corrective surgery and was unable to sleep for 144 hours. That is over 6 days without sleep!  6 DAYS […] - [Episode 50 - How to Rock Your Life in The Face of Adversity And The Hemp Revolution](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-50/): Meet my very good friend Diane V Capaldi (aka the Paleo Boss Lady)! V’s story is remarkable. She is one of the most powerful, smart, strong, bad-ass ladies I know!  What Does MS Have to Do With Brain Injury? Because the cells within the central nervous system are what are affected in ANY neurological condition, there are many similarities to our conditions (including the nutritional support for neurons). Despite her diagnosis, V went on to build several technology companies and to become a millionaire by the age of 26. She Became a mother to an amazing daughter, Nikki Bove (who […] - [Episode 49 - Filling the Gap in Medicine: The Hero’s Journey of a Health Crisis](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-49/): What’s up, y’all?!?! Last podcast, I interviewed my current optometrist who has been very influential in the trajectory of my recovery, and yet again, I get the opportunity to interview someone who has truly made a massive difference in my life! Two in a row!!!!  What if every health crisis were an opportunity to be the beginning of the hero’s journey? The hero’s journey starts from an ordinary world before the hero is thrust into a situation where they must embark on an adventure fraught with obstacles and challenges at every turn. After meeting a mentor, the hero is taught […] - [Episode 48 - The Eye Exam Upgrade: Leaving 20/20 in The 20th Century](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-48/): I originally met Dr. Deborah Zelinsky in 2014, when I presented for the Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association (NORA). After my keynote presentation (watch here), she approached me with a whole lot of inspired encouragement for my mission and a desire to collaborate. I have been in touch with Dr. Zelinsky for years, and I am so impressed with who she is, the work she does, and her revolutionary approach to neuro-optometry. Since then, I have participated in a few presentations and collaborations with Dr. Z, including the Society for Brain Mapping and Therapeutics annual conference where we did a round table […] - [Episode 47 - Qualifications from Experience and Outcome](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/episode-47-qualifications-from-experience-and-outcome/): Sometimes you meet someone who you totally resonate with on an experiential and mission level. Josh Perry is a super cool survivor and thriver who I am honored to have on the podcast!  Josh Perry grew up as an athlete in sports and eventually got into skateboarding and rollerblading until he saw that bikes could do tricks on the same ramps. This is where his passion for BMX was born. When he was 17, he moved to Greenville, NC to go after a career as a professional BMX athlete and to ride with some of the best riders in the […] - [Episode 47 - Qualifications from Experience and Outcome](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-47/): Sometimes you meet someone who you totally resonate with on an experiential and mission level. Josh Perry is a super cool survivor and thriver who I am honored to have on the podcast!  Josh Perry grew up as an athlete in sports and eventually got into skateboarding and rollerblading until he saw that bikes could do tricks on the same ramps. This is where his passion for BMX was born. When he was 17, he moved to Greenville, NC to go after a career as a professional BMX athlete and to ride with some of the best riders in the […] - [Episode 46 - Using Nutrition with Neuro-Feedback Can Improve Your Brain](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/episode-46-using-nutrition-with-neuro-feedback-can-improve-your-brain/): Nora Gedgaudas is a board-certified nutritional consultant and a board-certified clinical neurofeedback specialist with over 20 years of clinical experience. A recognized authority on ketogenic, ancestrally based nutrition, she is a popular speaker and educator and the author of the best selling book, Primal Body, Primal Mind, as well as Rethinking Fatigue. Her newest book, Primal Fat Burner has been lauded by best selling author and journalist, Nina Teicholz (tie-kells)  as “a unique and profound contribution to the field.” Her new weekly educational program, Primal Restoration™ is a unique and invaluable source of information benefitting those interested in furthering their […] - [Episode 46 - Using Nutrition with Neuro-Feedback Can Improve Your Brain](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-46/): Nora Gedgaudas is a board-certified nutritional consultant and a board-certified clinical neurofeedback specialist with over 20 years of clinical experience. A recognized authority on ketogenic, ancestrally based nutrition, she is a popular speaker and educator and the author of the best selling book, Primal Body, Primal Mind, as well as Rethinking Fatigue. Her newest book, Primal Fat Burner has been lauded by best selling author and journalist, Nina Teicholz (tie-kells)  as “a unique and profound contribution to the field.” Her new weekly educational program, Primal Restoration™ is a unique and invaluable source of information benefitting those interested in furthering their […] - [Episode 45 - What Have You Done for Your Brain Lately?](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/episode-45-what-have-you-done-for-your-brain-lately/): At the beginning of May, I had the privilege of attending the EPIC Functional Medicine Conference where I met a lot of amazing and inspiring practitioners who are really changing the game in healthcare. Dr. Robert G. Silverman was one of the first speakers, and he really set the stage with a powerful presentation about the blood-brain barrier. I know from experience that a brain injury really compromises this barrier that keeps toxins out and allows nutrients into the brain. And that’s kinda what it all comes down to: less toxins, more nutrients. Dr. Silverman is a thought leader in […] - [Episode 45 - What Have You Done for Your Brain Lately?](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-45/): At the beginning of May, I had the privilege of attending the EPIC Functional Medicine Conference where I met a lot of amazing and inspiring practitioners who are really changing the game in healthcare. Dr. Robert G. Silverman was one of the first speakers, and he really set the stage with a powerful presentation about the blood-brain barrier. I know from experience that a brain injury really compromises this barrier that keeps toxins out and allows nutrients into the brain. And that’s kinda what it all comes down to: less toxins, more nutrients. Dr. Silverman is a thought leader in […] - [Episode 44 - How to Get What You Want From Your Doctor: Patient Empowerment](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/episode-44-how-to-get-what-you-want-from-your-doctor-patient-empowerment/): It was six years ago when I was listening to Dr. Lauren Noel’s Podcast (here she is on my podcast), where I learned of a conference where many people I looked up to for advice to reclaim my health were going to be speaking. And it was happening in Austin, TX… In my backyard! At that point in my recovery, I was relearning how to walk, but Lauren got me in touch with Keith and Michelle Norris, the owners of this conference and Keith and Michelle gave me the opportunity to volunteer. Keith Norris has not only seen, but has […] - [Episode 44 - How to Get What You Want From Your Doctor: Patient Empowerment](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-44/): It was six years ago when I was listening to Dr. Lauren Noel’s Podcast (here she is on my podcast), where I learned of a conference where many people I looked up to for advice to reclaim my health were going to be speaking. And it was happening in Austin, TX… In my backyard! At that point in my recovery, I was relearning how to walk, but Lauren got me in touch with Keith and Michelle Norris, the owners of this conference and Keith and Michelle gave me the opportunity to volunteer. Keith Norris has not only seen, but has […] - [Challenge Authority, Defy Dogma, Demand Different!](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/challenge-authority/): By now, you likely know that I am a huge proponent of an evolutionary approach to health in general and nutrition in particular. This is why I am so honored to be presenting live at Paleo f(x) for their annual conference that’s put on by my good friends Keith and Michelle Norris. I interviewed Keith below for the Feed a Brain Interview Series, and I wanted to provide that video to you for free so you can see how and why this conference has been life-changing for me and that is life-changing for so many! Join me in AUSTIN, TX from April […] - [Episode 43 - Speech, Language, and Neurology](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-43/): If you’ve been listening to the Adventures in Brain Injury Podcast for a while, you may have noticed the improvement of my speech over time. Well, on this episode of the podcast, I’m interviewing MY main speech-language pathologists (SLP). Ms. Kathryn Hayes specializes in rehabilitation following neurological insult. In this episode, we talk about the paramount importance of communication and the creativity that can be used to unlock someone’s abilities. We also talk about stimulating comatose patients, the importance of swallowing to overall health, and the intertwined nature of language and neurology. Kathryn’s vast experience spans myriad ages and levels […] - [Episode 42 - Keto for Brain Health, Seizures, and Self-Care](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-42/): It’s awesome to have my friend, Jade Nelson, on the podcast! Jade is an Epilepsy Advocate, Community Health Educator, and Licensed Massage Therapist. When Jade was only 8 years old, she was diagnosed with Epilepsy. She spent the first 28 years on one or more anti-epileptic medications, yet she was never seizure free for more than 4 years. She also wrestled with all of the side effects of her medications: blurred vision, brain fog, fatigue, muscle aches, etc. Like so many of our guests an listeners, Jade studied and continues to study everything about her condition like her life depends […] - [Episode 41 - The Magic of Our Thoughts and Attention: Cavin Vs. The Grinch](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-41-2/): Hello everyone, For those of you who are following my personal Facebook page, you know that I was robbed on the Friday before Christmas… WHILE I WAS HOME! I’m pretty shaken up from the event. See this Facebook post from one of my best friends: https://www.facebook.com/1168685587/posts/10215289500368636/ All of the presents I had been wrapping all that night were stolen as well as some music gear, and… my most prized possession: my vintage 1950’s leather motorcycle jacket (which was handed down from my great uncle to my dad to me). This is the jacket that I was wearing when I sustained […] - [Episode 41 - Cavin Vs. The Grinch: The Magic of Our Thoughts and Attention](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-41/): Hello everyone, For those of you who are following my personal Facebook page, you know that I was robbed on the Friday before Christmas… WHILE I WAS HOME! I’m pretty shaken up from the event. See this Facebook post from one of my best friends: https://www.facebook.com/1168685587/posts/10215289500368636/ All of the presents I had been wrapping all that night were stolen as well as some music gear, and… my most prized possession: my vintage 1950’s leather motorcycle jacket (which was handed down from my great uncle to my dad to me). This is the jacket that I was wearing when I sustained […] - [V’s Cabbage Stew](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/vs-cabbage-stew/): Yield: 4 servings (mostly colored and sulfur) Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Ingredients: 2 fists green cabbage: chopped 1 fist red cabbage: chopped (optional) 2 fists carrot: chopped 2 fists onion: chopped 2 cloves garlic   MEATBALLS (optional (If not making because of egg content, use mild Italian sausage) 1 tbsp almond flour 1 pound of ground pork 1 large egg 1 large garlic clove: chopped 1 fist parsley: chopped 1 quart bone broth Olive oil or desired good medium or high heat fat (see Guide to Fats and Oils handout) Salt to taste (preferably pink Himalayan […] - [Golden Globe Latte](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/golden-globe-latte/): Servings 2   Ingredients: 1 can full-fat coconut milk, bone broth (seriously), or water 1 tsp turmeric ½ tsp cinnamon 1 tsp – 1 tbsp. of ghee 1 tsp – 1 tbsp. of coconut oil 1 pinch of black pepper (increases bioavailability of turmeric) ½ fist-sized piece of fresh or frozen peach, or other golden colored fruit like cantaloupe, mango, pineapple, etc. Optional – 1 scoop of exogenous ketones (legacy.feedabrain.com/keto) Optional – ¼ of a fist-sized avocado Optional – 1 pinch of cayenne pepper (for extra heat)   Instructions: Pour coconut milk, broth, or water into a small saucepan and […] - [Terry’s Green Ginger Smoothie](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/terrys-green-ginger-smoothie/):   Servings x2 (mostly greens)   Ingredients: 1 fist parsley (or another herb) 1/2 inch ginger 3 cups water 2 tbs lime juice or lemon juice Optional – One can coconut milk (if using coconut milk, reduce water to one cup) Optional – a handful of ice cubes 2 tbs olive oil (or other Good Fat)   Combine all ingredients in a blender on high until smooth… Enjoy! - [Bone Broth Inspired by V](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/bone-broth-inspired-by-v/): Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 2.5-24 hours (depending on equipment) Ingredients: 1 lbs chicken feet (or another kind of bones) 1 lbs chicken back/neck (or other kind of bones) 1 tablespoon organic apple cider vinegar 6-10 quarts water (preferably filtered or spring) optional – 2 bay leaves optional – 1 teaspoon of whole cloves optional – 1 unpeeled shallot or ½ onion optional – 2-5 unpeeled carrots optional – 2-5 celery stalks with leaves optional – 1 bunch of fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, and/or sage) optional – ½ – 2 tbsp salt to taste (preferably pink Himalayan sea salt) […] - [Two-Ingredient Keto Chocolate Mousse (2g carbs per serving)](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/ketomousse/): Desserts and keto don’t usually get together but check out this amazing two-ingredient chocolate mousse I’ve been making that is ridiculously easy, unbelievably tasty, and only has roughly 2 grams of carbohydrate per serving! After Thanksgiving, I was invited to a Pie Party. Because my food choices mostly follow Feed a Brain Keto, I am not much of a pie eater. So my friend and I decided to make this mousse. It’s gonna knock your socks off.   Ingredients: Full-fat organic coconut milk Primal Kitchen Collagen Fuel Chocolate Coconut (2g total carbohydrates per scoop!) (optional) – Finely ground coffee beans (optional) – 90% cocoa chocolate bar […] - [Episode 40 - Healthcare’s Conscious Evolution - The LOVE of The Practice](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-40/): Dr. Venu Julapalli is one of our favorite MDs! Like many of the MDs we correspond with, he is humble, curious, powerful, and collaborative toward his patients’ care. He does not place himself on a pedestal like an “MDiety!” 🙂 With an exceptionally curious and open mind, his experiences have given him an extremely broad perspective of professional medical training and a personal triumph that has forced him to cast a wider net when considering patient treatment options. Dr. Julapalli is an influential gastroenterologist in the trenches of conventional and emergency medicine in the Texas Medical Center. When his mother […] - [Episode 39 - Broad Spectrum Micronutrients and Brain Health](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-39/): In 2015, I had the wondrous opportunity to meet Dr. Bonnie Kaplan, PhD at the International Symposium on Clinical Neuroscience in Orlando, FL. Bonnie is passionate about nutrition for optimal brain function and repair… Me too! Needless to say, we get along! 🙂 With her training about how metabolism is dependent on availability of adequate nutrients, Bonnie Kaplan, PhD understands how important it is to “Feed a Brain!” Dr. Kaplan is a Professor Emerita in the Cumming School of Medicine at the University of Calgary, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, but, as you will hear in this interview, she has no […] - [Episode 38 - The Keto Doctor: Is Keto Actually Healthy?](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-38/): Before keto became a thing, as I would consume a large amount of fat, many people would ask me if I was worried about my cholesterol. And with the prevailing nutritional recommendations and guidelines over the past 30 years and the idea the cholesterol is the cause of heart disease, it is obvious why this is. In this episode, Michelle and I interview a board-certified physician of internal medicine (MD) located in the heart of heart disease in America: Mississippi (over 35% obesity rate). John Limansky, MD sees on average 30 patients per day in his practice, and he says […] - [An Introduction to Nutrition and The Brain](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/nutrition-and-the-brain/): What is The Brain? Shakespeare once wrote “the brain is the soul’s fragile dwelling place,” and fragile it is. The brain has the consistency of tofu, and brain injuries, strokes, or diseases often result in impairments. Our brains are made up of billions of nerve cells and fibers, networked by trillions of connections and synapses. Yet, a hard skull, three layers of membrane, and a cushion of shock-absorbing fluid are all that protect the seat of our personality, emotions, actions, and abilities. Just a few decades ago, it was commonly believed that the functional cells of the brain were unable […] - [Uridine: A Key for Synaptogenesis](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/uridine-article/): Research Roundup: Uridine Function in the Central Nervous System Arpád Dobolyi, Gábor Juhász, Zsolt Kovács, and Julianna Kardos  “Emerging evidence suggests that uridine is a neuroactive molecule, which is involved in the regulation of certain neural functions apart from its role in pyrimidine metabolism. Uridine has sleep-promoting and anti-epileptic effects, might affect mood, improves memory function and influences neuronal plasticity. Evidence for the existence of uridine sensitive neurons is also convincing. These actions are likely to be exerted via its actions on membrane formation, by the known uridine nucleotide receptors, or even on its own putative receptor predicted in plasmamembranes or […] - [Episode 37 - Neurosage: The Video Game that Can Reboot Your Brain!](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-37/): Dr. Kyle Daigle is professionally trained as a Chiropractor. He joined SNA Technologies (Systemic Neural Adaptation) in December 2014 as the President, Chief Medical Officer, and Managing Director for SNA Global. He is the Co-Inventor of a Patent Pending Digital Therapy Software program called Neurosage. Keeping his finger on the pulse of his patients as his career grows in new directions, Dr. Daigle still owns and operates a successful clinical practice, Ultimate Performance Chiro & Rehab in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Dr. Daigle left McNeese and moved on to Louisiana State University to continue studies in Biological Science. While at LSU, […] - [What's in Your Multivitamin?](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/multivitamin/): We all know that vitamins are important, but the form of the vitamins we take is just as important (if not more so) than how much we actually get of each vitamin. Most vitamin supplements out there have very poor forms of certain nutrients because they are very cheap to manufacture. For example, the cyanocobalamin form of B12 is a very poor form of vitamin B12 that produces cyanide as a by-product. For most people, cyanocobalamin just means that you will get very little of it into your blood as an active form. For those with certain genetic conditions, it could […] - [Episode 36 - Anti-Anxiety Diet and Supplementation: The 6 Foundational R's to Your Health](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-36/): Get ready to meet one of my favorite Austinites! These are some of the many reasons why: Ali Miller has dedicated her career to revolutionizing food-as-medicine in treatment and prevention of disease. She has a passion to create public awareness regarding the significant role diet plays in our overall health with her philosophy of Food-As-Medicine.  Ali’s message has influenced millions through both the media and the medical community. This was acknowledged in 2015 when Ali was named one of the “Top 50 Most Influential Women in Houston” by Houston Woman Magazine. Ali Miller is a registered dietitian (RD), certified diabetes […] - [Episode 35 - The Mindset for Miracles: Transforming Your Health Starts by Transforming Your Mind](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-35/): This one goes out to all the warrior moms and dads! Change your mindset and overcome limiting beliefs with 3 simple exercises that you can do today to take charge of your health, mind, and life. Check out our new podcast with JJ Virgin. JJ Virgin is a celebrity health expert and 4 time New York Times Best-Selling Author. She wanted to impact as many people as possible, but all of the training in the world could not prepare her for what was about to happen. Her son was struck by a hit-and-run, and left for dead. He was airlifted […] - [Possibility Coming to Life: Technology for Optimal Neurological Function and Repair](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/possibility-coming-life/):   What if you could learn in fast forward? What if we had the ability to passively learn techniques while doing other things? Did you know that our brains receive input from our senses and, whether we are aware of it or not, that input builds neuronal connections?! Check this video out, and let me know what you think in the comments. What do you see to be other possible uses for this technology? Is this something you’d like to try? - [Podcast 34 - Post Concussion Syndrome: It's All in Your Head](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-34/): It’s time for another adventure! I learned of Dr. Titus Chiu through his interview with Dr. Mark Hyman for the Broken Brain Mini-Series. If you didn’t  get a chance to watch it, I highly recommend that you check it out! Dr. Titus Chiu is an award-winning Teacher, International Speaker, Author and Functional Neurologist who specializes in  Post-Concussion Syndrome. He is on a mission to transform the face of healthcare for the 1 billion people around the world struggling with brain and mental disorders. He has a deep passion for teaching and had the honor to speak at the 2017 Institute […] - [April Showers](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/april-showers/):       s! - [Podcast 33 - The Difference Between Fixing and Healing](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-33-difference-fixing-healing/): Remember when we had Jessica on the Feed a Brain Interview Series? It was awesomely deep! Well… We did it again with Michelle on board, and it was really good! You see, Jessica Flanigan is a healer and she comes to it through the unified field of Loving. Illness is a way of broadening our understanding of this field of potential. She has been a clinical nutritionist for 20 years. She has worked extensively in private practice while also working alongside many practitioners including medical doctors, chiropractors, acupuncturists and body workers. She is also CEO of Nourishful Inc. and speaks […] - [Podcast 32 - The Inflammatory Tailspin of Brain Injury](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-32/): Today’s amazing episode is jam-packed with priceless powerful fixes and clinical pearls for both patient and practitioner, coming from a newly found AiBI favorite! We have the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Kat Toups, MD, a Distinguished Fellow of the American Psychiatric Association (the highest honor bestowed by the APA), Board Certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, and previously boarded in Geriatric Psychiatry. She is very qualified to speak into neurodegeneration, brain injury, and brain disease. The last thing we want is for a brain injury to become chronic neurodegeneration, and in this episode, we discuss how a […] - [Evolved Prejudice](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/evolved-prejudice/): Something is off about me. For the first few years of my recovery, I was clearly damaged. Upon encountering me, strangers would correctly assume that I had sustained an injury and would approach me with sympathy, compassion, and unfortunately pitty. But the bottom line is that I would be approached with kindness. People tended to jump at the chance to be helpful to an obviously disabled young man. As I recovered more and more, I crossed a threshold where I no longer appeared to be clearly damaged. I had reached my goal! I am no longer pitied or perceived as someone who needs the assistance of others. Am I treated like everyone else?... Almost and not at all. - [Turmeric](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/turmeric/): Curcuminoids with Piperine  Neuroprotective and neurotrophic curcuminoids to treat stroke: a translational perspective Abstract: https://doi.org/10.1517/13543784.2011.542410 Paul A Lapchak , PhD FAHA Pages 13-22 | Published online: 15 Dec 2010 | Download citation Take home message: Curcumin and curcuminoids are neuroprotective in a variety of preclinical stroke models. The novel multi-target curcuminoid, CNB-001, has a superior safety and pharmacokinetic profile and should be further developed as an acute monotherapy or to be used in conjunction with thrombolytics for acute ischemic stroke. Curcumin by down-regulating NF-kB and elevating Nrf2, reduces brain edema and neurological dysfunction after cerebral I/R. Abstract: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.mvr.2015.12.008 Li W, Suwanwela NC, […] - [Podcast 31 - The Power of Thought with a Bad-Ass Quadriplegic](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcast-31/): My New Year’s Resolution: to be more bad-ass than I was the year before. Jerod is the most bad-ass Quadriplegic I have ever met! His strength and serenity and his command of his perspective and thoughts is so powerful! - [BDNF: Miracle Gro For The Brain](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/bdnf/): BDNF: Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor Neurotrophins are a group of compounds that regulate brain growth, development, and repair. One of the most well-researched of these neurotrophins are BDNF (Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor) which many scientists call “Miracle Gro for the brain”. BDNF regulates the growth, protection, maintenance, and repair of neurons in our brain. It even has an anti-depressant effects according to new research. In this article, we are going to show you how to raise your BDNF naturally! A Healthy Life Means a Healthy Brain There are many natural ways to raise BDNF that sound like they came straight […] - [Gluten: The Hidden Dangers](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/gluten/): Introduction: Fact or Fad? Is the gluten scare a real health concern, or just another fad diet? Many say it is a fad. Some say that it is only dangerous if you have an intolerance or an allergy. Many people also demonize wheat outright as a whole no matter the circumstances. Others advocate heirloom wheat only, or only sprouted and fermented grains. No wonder everyone is confused! In this article, we are going to get into the science of gluten, and what you need to know about it. Wheat and Grains Before we talk about gluten, we need to talk about […] - [Sea Veggies: Nutrient Powerhouses!](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/sea/): Sea Veggies: Iodine is a very important nutrient for synaptogenesis and myelination of neurons, and sea veggies are some of the best sources of iodine! In this article, I list all the most popular sea vegetables, and their benefits. Studies in rats have shown that myelination of neurons is significantly impaired by iodine deficiency and 3 billion people worldwide are deficient in iodine! Iodine is also crucial for metabolism in general because of its effect on thyroid hormones. It also a huge impact on the immune system. If you read my Full Article on Synaptogenesis, then you know about the […] - [Fluoride: The Science Vs The Hype](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/fluoride/): The Fluoride: What Does the Science Say? There is a waging war across the internet about fluoride and whether it helps your teeth or whether it is a poison. The true answer if we examine the data is both. The first noticed examples of issues caused by excess fluoride in the United States was in Colorado. Certain wells had too much fluoride in them and it caused issues with the local’s teeth. “Colorado Brown Stain” They called it “Colorado Brown Stain”. This is when brown or feathery white stains occur on the teeth. This is where the fluoride has replaced […] - [Hydration is More Important Than Food!](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/hydration/): Just want my favorite water bottle? Click here. Hydration is Key for Brain Health Don’t get me wrong, both food and water are both very important. However, if you stop eating you will be able to fast for a while. Some people even do 30 days on just water with electrolytes! Stop drinking water, and you will only have a precious few days. When you get dehydrated, you will notice more severe symptoms than when you are just hungry. Now we mentioned in another article how if your blood sugar is not stable then you may experience symptoms of hypoglycemia […] ## Pages - [The Dismissal of Divisiveness PART 5](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/dod-5/): ​Happy Thanksgiving, my friends! The holidays can be tricky, especially during extremely divisive times like these. It can be challenging to find that place of appreciation when there is such powerful forces making global moves that negatively affect each and every one of us. And it can be even more challenging when some of those we love are committed to remaining blind to it.  ​​In my experience, however, the healthiest thing we can do for our brains, bodies, and souls is to allow others to have their own perspectives, their own values, and to have their own experiences… whatever those […] - [The Dismissal of Divisiveness PART 4](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/dod-4/): In my previous posts, I shared my experience about how some have decided that they are more qualified about what my thoughts and feelings are than I am, how I have chosen to dismiss divisiveness during these very divisive times, and some of what I have learned concerning scientific exploitation and the profit driven medical system. If you haven’t read those posts, you can read Part 1 here you can read Part 2 here and you can read Part 3 here. After reading this one, be sure you can continue on to Part 5 here In this post I’ll touch […] - [Dismissal of Divisiveness PART 3](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/dod-3/): In the last post, I spoke about some of my perspectives about the systemic divisiveness in our world right now. Thank you all for your responses. If you haven’t read those posts: you can read Part 1 here and you can read Part 2 here. After reading this post, you can continue on to read Part 4 here. In this post we will explore the medical and scientific exploitation that I have witnessed and experienced first hand within the profit driven medical model. We will also talk about the origin of our need to fit in, what exactly the standard […] - [The Dismissal of Divisiveness PART 2](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/dod-2/): In the last post, I outlined that no one is more qualified on your own thoughts and feelings than you. And because I no longer see any value in spending my time to prove my thoughts and feelings to anyone, it feels great to let those who are not curious go. If you haven’t read the previous parts of this series, you can read Part 1 here and when you’re finished with this post, be sure to continue on and read Part 3 here. For everyone else, thank you for being here for these next few emails where I will […] - [The Dismissal of The Divisiveness PART 1](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/dod-1/): Something heavy has been weighing on my heart, and so I am writing you this very important message. As you have likely felt, there is an unignorable divide that is splitting at the fabric of many families and long held friendships over an issue that the entire globe is now forced to take a side on. Regardless of what “side” someone is on, I know for a fact that I am not the only one who has experienced uncomfortable turmoil amongst some of my family and friends in the past year and a half… So I am sending this message […] - [About Michelle Malmberg](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/mm/):  Michelle Malmberg Michelle is a former ballroom and Latin dancer, choreographer, a mother, and all-around lovely human being who was given a 1% chance of survival after numerous seizures resulted in… – A coma with a rock bottom GCS (Glasgow Coma Scale of 3); – Imaging showing that she had a mandarin orange size tumor in her right frontal lobe  – A medical mishap resulted in a punctured carotid artery that bled out into her chest cavity requiring emergency thoracic surgery and a blood transfusion. Once stabilized, the tumor was surgically removed and she worked toward a successful outcome and […] - [hdft](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/hdft/) - [shop](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/shop/) - [hnl](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/hnl/) - [ebook](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/ebook/) - [itunes](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/itunes/) - [Music](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/music/): After TBI Before TBI Both After TBI - [Recovery Potential Partnership](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/consult/): [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Recovery Potential Partnership Partner with Cavin Balaster, CFNC: Unlock Your Recovery Potential Certified Functional Nutrition Counselor | Neurology Specialist | Patient Empowerment Advocate Cavin Balaster, CFNC, is a renowned practitioner in functional nutrition and neurology who transforms lives by combining personal experience, professional expertise, and an unwavering commitment to recovery. Whether you’re looking to optimize your energy, mental clarity, and overall health or navigating the challenges of brain injury, neurodegenerative diseases, or digestive imbalances, Cavin partners with you to create a comprehensive recovery plan tailored to your unique situation. The Recovery Potential Partnership Cavin’s journey began after surviving a […] - [Brain Fog - Dr. K](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/brainfog/) - [DI](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/di/) - [HNL](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/hnl-home/) - [My TBI Story](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/my-tbi-story/) - [Services](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/services/): Survivor to Thriver: Post Recovery Coaching for Survivors and Cargivers Acute Stage Coaching for Supporters and Caregivers - [Products](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/products/): Throughout my recovery, I have come across a few products that I have found to be worth their weight in gold. I have used and continue to use these products, and I am happy to share them with you. Click on any product or banner to learn more.   Exogenous Ketones – Use Coupon Code FEEDABRAIN for 15% Off Quality Fats: - [Sauna](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/sauna/) - [TLP](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/plp/) - [Gut](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/gut/) - [Become a Sponsor](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/sponsor/) - [Practitioner Resources](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/practitioner-resources/): Learn from my world-renowned mentor. Andrea breaks down what it means to practice functional nutrition in order to get to the root-cause of the trickiest complex cases for patients who feel like they’ve ‘seen everyone and tried everything. You’ll learn the secret to become the practitioner that health professionals refer clients to with assurance, trusting that the patient will be in the right hands. And you’ll learn three principles to developing the confidence and expert positioning that will catapult your practice. This ebook costs $7, but when you use the coupon code “feedabrain”, she will grant it to my audience […] - [Solving Leaky Gut](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/solving-leaky-gut/): https://hg177.isrefer.com/go/leakygutwebinar/CavinB/ - [Physical Therapy](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/resources/physical-therapy-info/): Physical Therapy From the Blog “On Your Feet, Soldier“ “In Dependence Day“ “One Hip Dude“ “March to a Different Beat“ “Into the Cradle“ “Baby’s first steps“ “Hailing A Taxi…(Ataxia)“ “Drawing a Map“ “Out of Balance“ “Fire walk with me“ “Building Bridges: Rebuilding Neuronal Connections“ “Write Away: How a Treadmill Desk Facilitates my Writing“ Organizations   Online Groups Blog Communities: Facebook: Adventures in Brain Injury Facebook Page. Hope After Head Injury Facebook Group TBI Tribe Facebook Group   Help Grow Our list! If you would like to suggest a reputable resource, please contact us. - [Thanks for Signing Up!](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/45613212384815612357-2/): [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Thanks again for subscribing to our newsletter! You didn’t have to enter your email address, but you did, and I’d like to thank you by sending you free eBooks as I continue to produce them (along with the occasional update or announcement). [/vc_column_text][vc_column_text] I’d like to start by sharing a bit more about myself with you! I realize that navigating an entire blog can be a difficult way to get to know someone… [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] That’s why I decided to put together a short but detailed overview of my recovery journey, including an FAQ addressing some of the more popular questions I […] - [Contact Me](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/contact-me/): [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Please use the contact form below. All contact will be kept confidential. To schedule an interview, write INTERVIEW in the subject line and give details. For sponsorship applications, write SPONSOR in the subject line and use the message section to describe what it is that you, your clinic, or company do for neurorehabilitation and/or brain optimization. For consultations, you can visit my consultations page to schedule a discovery call. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] - [Books](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/books/): [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]   Join our newsletter and download my free eBook! “My TBI Story” is an overview of the events leading up to my severe traumatic brain injury, the many stages of my recovery, and the road my life has taken since. I’ve included a short FAQ with insights to the recovery process and a list of useful links. [/vc_column_text][vc_separator css=”.vc_custom_1452967634832{padding-top: 25px !important;}”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row top_margin=”0″ bottom_margin=”0″ css=”.vc_custom_1452966176902{margin-top: -40px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text] Worthwhile Reading Why Isn’t My Brain Working?: A Revolutionary Understanding of Brain Decline and Effective Strategies to Recover Your Brain’s Health – “Losing your memory? Can’t focus or concentrate? Do you have brain fog or tire easily? Have you lost your zest […] - [Worthwhile Reading](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/resources/worthwhile-reading/): [vc_row top_margin=”0″ bottom_margin=”0″ css=”.vc_custom_1452966176902{margin-top: -40px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text] Brain Injury and Neurology Why Isn’t My Brain Working?: A Revolutionary Understanding of Brain Decline and Effective Strategies to Recover Your Brain’s Health – “Losing your memory? Can’t focus or concentrate? Do you have brain fog or tire easily? Have you lost your zest for life or motivation? Do people tell you this is all a normal part of aging? If so, your brain may be growing old too fast, or degenerating. Modern diets, a stressful lifestyle, and environmental toxins all take their toll on the brain.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Head Cases: Stories of Brain Injury and Its Aftermath – “Head Cases […] - [Healthcare & Medicine Resources](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/resources/healthcare-medicine/): [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Worthwhile Reading The Creative Destruction of Medicine: How the Digital Revolution Will Create Better Health Care – “Mobile technology has transformed our lives, and personal genomics is revolutionizing biology. But despite the availability of technologies that can provide wireless, personalized health care at lower cost, the medical community has resisted change. In The Creative Destruction of Medicine, Eric Topol—one of the nation’s top physicians—calls for consumer activism to demand innovation and the democratization of medical care. The Creative Destruction of Medicine is the definitive account of the coming disruption of medicine, written by the field’s leading voice.”[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Wahls Protocol: How I Beat […] - [Programs I Love](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/resources/programs/): [vc_row top_margin=”0″ bottom_margin=”0″ css=”.vc_custom_1453843840094{margin-top: -20px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text] Programs Learn to Heal Leaky Gut and Digestive Issues with SCDLifestyle It has been a great honor to work with Steve and Jordan from SCDlifestyle as a research partner for their programs. After dealing with serious personal health issues, Steve and Jordan formed a relationship through solving their leaky gut and tackling their life-threatening health problems by focusing on the same foundations I did throughout my brain injury: nutrition! Whether you are a practitioner or patient yourself, learning about leaky gut and tackling difficult solutions at the source, and at an extremely affordable price, is really […] - [Vision Therapy and Rehabilitation](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/resources/vision-therapy-rehabilitation/): [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]From the Blog   Vision Therapy after Brain Injury (Video) Part 2 “Double Vision” “A Vision Among Visionaries“ “A Sit Down – with Cavin Balaster on VT Works”  “Therapy by the Sea: Speaking at NJSOP“   Vision Therapy Blogs The VisionHelp Blog – It has been a great pleasure and honor working and presenting with Dr. Leonard Press since my traumatic brain injury.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]VT Works – Robert Nurisio is a wondeful friend and one of my original personal vision therapists. His blog about vision therapy is second to none. He wrote a great “Sit Down” interview with my mother and was kind enough to be the second guest […] - [TBI Resources](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/resources/tbi-resources/): [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Allied Organizations VisionHelp Group – The VisionHelp Group is a collective of developmental optometrists passionately sharing the best practices in our field. Their purpose is to end the senseless struggle due to developmental and rehabilitative vision problems. They have a background in state and national leadership in optometry and optometric education as university professors, authors, and lecturers. The doctors of the VisionHelp Group meet regularly to discuss the latest developments and best practices as well as to facilitate and develop initiatives to advocate for professional and public awareness of developmental vision and rehabilitation.   The Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association – The Neuro-Optometric Rehabilitation Association, […] - [eBooks](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/ebooks/) - [Support AiBI](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/support/): [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Support Our Work and Help to Make a Difference [/vc_column_text][vc_separator style=”dashed” border_width=”2″ el_width=”70″][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text] [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text]Support AiBI and FaB on Patreon – Give something back for the podcasts and content that we create. Patreon is a simple crowd-funding website which allows users to subscribe to and support projects for any amount or duration. For as little as $0.25 per podcast or video, supporters get to contribute to content creation, receive instant notifications, and help complete funding goals for things like production and promotion! If everyone who listened regularly contributed one dollar, we would be able to affect more change in neurorehabilitation and reach more people. Show your support […] - [Podcast](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/podcasts/): [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] The Adventures in Brain Injury Podcast: Exploring neuroplasticity, neuro-rehabilitation, and brain optimization. Learn more about Cavin Balaster Listen on: Spotify, iTunes, Google Podcast, YouTube [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row css=”.vc_custom_1628055069513{background-color: rgba(0,0,0,0.01) !important;*background-color: rgb(0,0,0) !important;}”][vc_column][/vc_column][/vc_row] - [Resources](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/resources/): [vc_row top_margin=”0″ bottom_margin=”0″ css=”.vc_custom_1449169206797{margin-top: -30px !important;}”][vc_column][vc_column_text]As is often reported by many caretakers, supporters, and survivors, finding helpful and useful resources can be frustrating. This index is an attempt to provide a growing list of helpful resources and information, collected and recommended by many friends, patients, health practitioners and fellow survivors and their families throughout and after the course of my recovery. If you’d like to include your website or a resource you recommend, or if you have any questions about any of these links, please contact me! Disclaimer: Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links which may earn us […] - [Adventures in Brain Injury: Empowered Recovery](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/): Adventures in Brain Injury is an online resource for health, recovery, and community created by severe traumatic brain injury survivor, Cavin Balaster. - [Speaking](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/speaking/): [vc_row top_margin=”0″ bottom_margin=”0″][vc_column] [/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row top_margin=”0″ bottom_margin=”0″][vc_column][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1448707014563{margin-top: 10px !important;}”] Bio: In 2011 Cavin Balaster sustained a severe traumatic brain injury that left him comatose with less than a 10% chance of ever regaining consciousness beyond a persistent vegetative state.  He didn’t eat, walk, or talk for months while he was in the hospital. He was breathing from a tube in his neck, receiving nutrition from a tube in his belly, and his left hand was completely flexed inward. About a year after his injury, he was introduced to a nutritional protocol that helped him begin to regain some clarity.  That’s […] - [Contact](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/contact/): [vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text] Please use the contact form below if you have any questions, suggestions or requests. I will do my best to respond soon. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row] - [About](https://adventuresinbraininjury.com/about/): Adventures in Brain Injury: Empowered Recovery Since his severe traumatic brain injury in 2011, Cavin has been studying neuro-rehabilitation like his life depended on it… because it did. Learning and implementing principles of neurology, physiology, nutrition, and medical law has made a huge difference in his recovery. He has since created a podcast, two websites, and published his first book, How To Feed a Brain: Nutrition for Optimal Brain Function and Repair.  While also developing working relationships with medical workers and neurorehabilitation professionals, he has been able to use his experience, knowledge, and connections to support others with neurological injuries. […] [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)