How to Cut the Risk of Brain Injury in Football Players by 40–60% — in Two Easy Steps
We’re a quarter of the way into football season, and concussions are already making headlines.
In the first three weeks of the NFL season, at least 8 players have suffered concussions — including Jets quarterback Justin Fields.
In college, dozens more, including Texas Longhorns WR DeAndre Moore Jr., have entered concussion protocol.
Parents and athletes ask: Is there any way to lower the risk of brain injury in contact sports?
The science says yes.
🧪 The Research
In a 2021 study published in the Journal of International Society of Sports Nutrition:
One group of players took a daily omega-3 supplement (DHA, EPA, DPA — the same healthy fats found in fish oil).
The second group didn’t supplement.
The results:
Without omega-3s → blood levels of neurofilament light (Nf-L), a marker of brain injury, jumped 50% during the season.
With omega-3s → Nf-L rose only 10–15%.
👉 That’s a greater than 60% reduction in brain injury risk.
Players took about 3 grams per day — the equivalent of:
6–8 Tuna Omega-3 Oil capsules or
4–8 Cod Liver Oil capsules
❤️ Bonus Benefits
Omega-3s didn’t just protect the brain:
Better heart health: improved omega-3 index and lower inflammation. (See the Omega-3 Index test we carry in our office )
Lower risk of sudden cardiac death : up to 90%. Study link
Slower brain aging: less cognitive decline. Study link
Reduced systemic inflammation. Study link
✅ Your Two-Step Action Plan
Test your Omega-3 Index. Here is a link to the test we use in the office.
Supplement and optimize diet. Aim for an Omega-3 Index of 8–12%.
Best food sources of Omega-3s: SMASH fish — Salmon, Mackerel, Anchovies, Sardines, Herring (low in toxins and rich in omega-3s).
⚡ Why This Matters for Everyone
Even if you’re not suiting up on Saturdays, everyday life stresses your brain and heart — long hours, blood pressure, inflammation, and the wear-and-tear of modern living. Omega-3s are one of the simplest ways to protect your body from the inside out.
To your health,
The Crippen Chiropractic Nutrition & Wellness Team
