Headstrong Launches Brain-First Sports Nutrition to Support Athletes at Risk of Concussion | Co-Founded by Darren Burke and Evan Nause
Dr. Darren Burke and Pro Hockey Player Evan Nause Introduce Science-Based Formula Designed to Support Brain Health and Mental Performance in Contact Sports
HALIFAX, NOVA SCOTIA – March 2026. In a sports nutrition industry historically focused on muscle, strength, and recovery, Headstrong is introducing a new category: brain-first sports nutrition.
Founded by Dr. Darren Burke, a scientist and former professor specializing in human performance, and Evan Nause, a professional hockey player, Headstrong was created with a clear and urgent mission:
To support the brain health and mental performance of athletes, particularly those exposed to repetitive head impacts and concussion risk.
A New Category: Nutrition for the Brain, Not Just the Body
For decades, athletes have relied on supplements targeting physical performance. However, growing awareness around concussion and long-term brain health has exposed a major gap:
There has been no widely adopted, evidence-informed nutritional solution designed specifically to support the brain.
Headstrong aims to change that.
“We built Headstrong for ourselves and for athletes like us,” says Dr. Darren Burke.
“The science around brain metabolism, neuroprotection, and mental resilience exists. It just hasn’t been translated into a practical, trusted product for athletes.”
The Science Behind the Headstrong Formulation
The original Headstrong formulation was designed using research-backed dosages of ingredients studied for their roles in brain energy metabolism, oxidative stress, neurotransmitter support, and cognitive function.
Each ingredient was selected based on published scientific literature, and importantly:
These ingredients have not traditionally been combined into a single, athlete-focused formulation at efficacious doses.
Key Ingredients and Their Role in Brain and Mental Health
Creatine Monohydrate
Widely known for muscle performance, creatine also plays a critical role in brain energy metabolism (ATP production). Emerging research suggests it may support cognitive performance under stress and recovery following neurological strain.
N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)
A precursor to glutathione, one of the body’s most important antioxidants. NAC is studied for its role in reducing oxidative stress and supporting neurological resilience, particularly in contexts of brain injury and mental fatigue.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom
A functional mushroom associated with nerve growth factor (NGF) stimulation. Research suggests potential benefits for neuroplasticity, cognitive function, and mood regulation.
Ashwagandha
An adaptogen known to help regulate the body’s stress response. It is associated with reduced cortisol levels, improved resilience, and support for mental well-being.
L-Tyrosine
An amino acid involved in the production of dopamine and norepinephrine, key neurotransmitters for focus, motivation, and cognitive performance under pressure.
Designed for Brain Health and Mental Performance
While no dietary supplement is intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent disease, the Headstrong formulation is designed to support normal physiological processes related to brain function, including:
- Cellular energy production in the brain
- Antioxidant defense systems
- Neurotransmitter balance
- Stress response and mental resilience
These systems are increasingly recognized as important in both brain health and mental health, particularly for athletes operating in high-pressure, high-impact environments.
A First in Sport: NSF Certified for Sport
Headstrong is among the first products of its kind to achieve NSF Certified for Sport® status.
This certification ensures:
- No banned substances
- Label accuracy and transparency
- Suitability for professional and collegiate athletes
For Burke and Nause, this was non-negotiable.
“If athletes are going to trust a product with their careers and health, it has to meet the highest standards,” says Nause.
From Locker Room Problem to Scalable Solution
The idea for Headstrong did not start in a lab. It started in conversations between a scientist and an athlete navigating the realities of modern sport:
- Increased awareness of concussion risk
- Limited proactive solutions for brain support
- Growing concern around long-term mental health
Headstrong was built to bridge that gap, combining scientific insight with lived athletic experience.
The Future of Sports Nutrition Is Brain-First
As awareness of brain health, concussion, and mental performance continues to grow, Headstrong is positioning itself at the forefront of a shift in the industry.
From body-first to brain-first.
From reactive care to proactive support.
From fragmented ingredients to integrated formulations.
About Headstrong
Headstrong is a brain-first sports nutrition company founded by Dr. Darren Burke and professional athlete Evan Nause. The company develops science-based, NSF Certified for Sport® formulations designed to support brain health, mental performance, and resilience in athletes and high performers.
FAQ
What is Headstrong?
Headstrong is a brain-first sports nutrition brand focused on supporting brain health and mental performance in athletes.
Does Headstrong prevent concussion?
No. Headstrong is a dietary supplement designed to support normal brain function. It is not intended to prevent, treat, or cure concussion or any medical condition.
Why is creatine included in a brain supplement?
Creatine supports cellular energy production, including in the brain, and has been studied for cognitive performance under stress.
What makes Headstrong different from other supplements?
It combines multiple research-backed ingredients at meaningful doses into a single formulation and is NSF Certified for Sport.
Who created Headstrong?
Headstrong was founded by Dr. Darren Burke, a scientist and entrepreneur, and Evan Nause, a professional hockey player.