The brain is entirely dependent on a continual supply of nutrients for the production of energy and the maintenance of function. Brain attack is a good example of a condition where the loss of blood flow and the consequent deprivation of nutrients can be devastating in terms of both structure and function. The unique metabolic characteristics of the brain make it more susceptible than most other organs of the body to nutrient restriction and starvation. In addition, changes occur during ischemia that compromise nutrient consumption even with reperfusion. Clearly, improving the outcome following brain attack will require a restoration of nutrient consumption to meet the relatively high energetic demands of the brain, and novel interventions to offset any metabolic lesions induced by the insult or reperfusion injury.