Polio is caused by a virus that attacks nerve cells, killing them and depriving muscles of their innervation. The result can be weakened or paralyzed muscles, often in the arms or legs and sometimes in the diaphragm, causing breathing problems. Although the disease is now rare due to the introduction of polio vaccines in the 1950s, people who had polio many years ago sometimes develop new or increased weakness in their muscles. Diet can be very important in helping polio survivors maximize their energy and improve their quality of life.
Post-Polio Syndrome
Post-polio syndrome, or PPS, is a disorder that sometimes develops in a polio survivor 30 or 40 years after the original illness. Common symptoms include increased muscle weakness or pain in muscles and joints, general fatigue with exhaustion after any activity, decrease in muscle size, new breathing or swallowing problems and intolerance of cold. Although the cause of PPS has not been clearly identified, it may be due by death of nerve cells damaged by the disease or wearing out of normal nerve cells that have been overburdened for many years. If you have PPS, diet can play an important role in helping you maximize your energy.
Role of Protein
According to Dr. Susan Creange at the Post-Polio Institute, polio survivors need to maintain a blood sugar level somewhat higher than normal, to keep their nervous system well nourished and supplied with energy. The best strategy to achieve this is to begin each day with protein, which tends to raise blood sugar gradually and to maintain it at a higher level throughout the day. Dr. Creange recommends at least 16g of protein at breakfast. In addition to eating a protein-rich breakfast, consider adding protein to every meal and choosing protein-rich snacks throughout the day.
Good Protein Choices
Examples of high-protein, healthy foods to include in your breakfast are low-fat cottage cheese, yogurt, skim milk and whole grain bagels. Alternatively, choose egg beaters or make an egg white omelet for breakfast. Cheese is also rich in protein; choose low fat varieties, adding them to your omelet or bagel. For lunch and dinner, consume lots of healthy fish such as salmon or tuna, or choose tofu as a meat substitute that is protein rich. Consider high protein snack bars or high protein drinks for snacks between your meals.
Meals
Eating regular meals is equally important as choosing high-protein foods for polio survivors. Never skip breakfast, since this is the meal that replaces energy expenditures used as you begin your day. In addition, consider having breakfast before showering and doing your other early morning activities, to give your nervous system an energy boost. Never skip lunch or dinner and have small snacks throughout the day, to keep your blood sugar at a moderately high level all day. Discuss your diet plan with your doctor or a dietitian to develop a regimen that is best for you.
Member Comments