Muscular dystrophy is a collection of over 30 genetic diseases that involve muscle degeneration and loss of movement. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke states that the most common type is Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a condition that usually manifests in boys between the ages of 3 and 5. Nutrition therapy will not cure your muscular dystrophy, but it is important for maintaining your health. Ask your doctor -- or your child's doctor -- before using diet and nutrition for this health problem.
Muscular Dystrophy
Signs and symptoms of this disease vary based on the type of muscular dystrophy. In some people, there is an impact on all the body's muscles while, in other subjects, only certain muscles may be affected. Possible signs and symptoms of muscular dystrophy, notes the National Center for Biotechnology Information, include progressive muscle weakness, delayed motor development in children, drooling, sagging eyelids, increased frequency of falling, reduction in the size or girth of your muscles, hair loss and problems with ambulation.
Proper Dietary Practices
Numerous dietary practices may be helpful in reducing some symptoms associated with muscular dystrophy. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that you should eliminate common food allergens -- wheat, dairy, soy, corn, preservatives, additives -- from your diet. UMMC also advises that you should consider boosting your intake of antioxidant-rich foods such as blueberries, cherries, tomatoes, spinach, kale and bell pepper. Reducing or eliminating refined foods, trans fatty acids, coffee, alcohol and red meat from your diet may also be beneficial.
Nutritional Supplements
Several nutritional supplements may be useful in treating your muscular dystrophy-related symptoms. Two of the most important nutritional supplements for this health purpose, notes UMMC, are creatine and coenzyme Q10. The center shares that muscle cells in people with muscular dystrophy contain significantly less creatine than they should, and this may lead to muscle weakness. The center continues that coenzyme Q10 may enhance exercise tolerance in people with muscular dystrophy. Further clinical research trials may be required to better understand the efficacy of these supplements for this health purpose.
Considerations
Muscular dystrophy is a progressive condition for which there is no known cure. The use of nutrition therapy -- dietary changes, nutritional supplements -- does not guarantee a cure or a favorable health outcome. In most cases, nutrition therapy should be used as an adjunct therapy in the treatment of this health problem. Your physician can tell you about the most helpful and efficacious dietary practices and supplements to consume for this condition, and she can counsel you on both the advantages and disadvantages of this natural treatment approach.
