Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also called ALS, is a neurological condition that results in muscle weakness and eventual death. This disease commonly starts as muscle weakness and twitching in an arm or leg. It may also begin with slurring of your speech. ALS can impair your muscle control and affect your ability to speak, eat, and move with ease. Maintaining a well-balanced, nutrient-rich diet is important in order to help relieve and manage symptoms of ALS.
Foods Rich In Zinc
Foods rich in zinc may play a beneficial role in coping with ALS. The Linus Pauling Institute reports that a moderate intake of zinc supplements contributed to a longer survival rate in animal studies of ALS. They also found that a deficiency in zinc may speed up the onset and progression of ALS. More studies are necessary, however, to conclude that including zinc-rich foods in your diet may be helpful. Good dietary sources of zinc include oysters, red meat and chicken. Other good sources include beans, nuts, seafood, and whole grains.
Pecans
Eating a serving of pecans a day may help to protect the health of your nervous system. A 2010 article in Medical News Today discusses a July 2010 study published in "Current Topics in Nutraceutical Research," which concludes that adding pecans to your daily diet may slow the progression of neurological conditions such as ALS. Pecans contain vitamin E, an antioxidant that may help your body fight against cellular damage. The Medical News Today article notes that pecans contain the most antioxidants of the tree nuts and can provide essential health benefits to your body and nervous system.
Other Foods Rich In Vitamin E
In addition to pecans, other foods rich in vitamin E may play a positive role in your health when you have ALS. A report from the Linus Pauling Institute states that vitamin E may not extend your life once you are diagnosed; however, it may help slow the disease from progressing rapidly. Foods rich in vitamin E include avocado, almonds, pecans, nut butters, spinach and vegetable oils.
