Post-polio syndrome, or PPS, is a medical condition that sometimes occurs later in the lives of people who survived polio in their younger years. Muscle atrophy, weakness and generalized fatigue are symptoms of PPS. The syndrome can become dangerous if the respiratory muscles become involved. Medications used to control pain associated with post-polio syndrome and careful exercise to maintain range of motion and mobility can manage the condition. Good nutrition is also important to people who suffer from PPS, though a specific "PPS diet" does not exist.
Adhere to RDA
Following a balanced diet that adheres to nutritional daily allowances appropriate to your age and gender sounds like vague advice, but is a good way to start thinking about nutrition when you are struggling with post-polio syndrome. The United States Department of Health and Human Services suggests learning to read the DV, or daily values, on food labels to help you determine which foods are nutritious and those that give only empty calories. Eat foods that contain 20 percent or more DV for vitamins and minerals and less than 20 percent of your daily fat needs in any one item. Center your diet on fresh produce, lean proteins like chicken or fish and whole grains to ensure you are getting iron, protein folic acid, calcium and vitamins A and C, for example. Your doctor or nutritionist can help you determine what your individual caloric and nutrient requirements are according to your overall health.
Increase Protein
Protein is of particular importance to people with PPS. Symptoms of the condition include fatigue both of the muscles and an overall decline in your energy level. Protein gives you energy and also plays a role in muscle function. Eating protein, especially earlier in the day when you are at your freshest, can help you make through to the afternoon with a minimum of energy-related problems."New Mobility" magazine recommends a power protein breakfast for post-polio sufferers; eggs, cream or cottage cheese and milk combined with a grain contains approximately 16g of protein to get your day started. Eating a protein-rich lunch is preferable over a simple garden salad to help you over the hump of the day with your energy intact.
Weight Control
Weight control is an issue that PPS patients need to monitor carefully. If your mobility is limited due to symptoms, you may gain weight more quickly and easily than when you are more able-bodied and exercise more regularly. This can be dangerous for a number of reasons. Your risk of developing high cholesterol and heart disease becomes higher with each pound you put on and you are more likely to develop diabetes as well. Extra weight can also make movement and your everyday life more difficult when your muscles are already taxes from the polio virus. Taking care to eat balanced meals while limiting your consumption of high-fat, sugary junk foods can help manage your symptoms.
Considerations
Every person is different and post-polio syndrome can affect you differently than others. If you are having a hard time functioning due to fatigue and cannot manage to prepare healthy meals for yourself, contact your medical care provider. Your doctor can refer you to the appropriate agencies who can help cope with your condition.
References
- NINDS: Post-Polio Syndrome Fact Sheet
- "New Mobility":The Post-Polio Institute Protein Power 'Diet'
- "Post-Polio Health"; Nutrition and Post-Polio; Lauro Halstead; Winter 1998.
- Post-Polio Health International: Alternative Therapies
- U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Finding Your Way to a Healthier You
