Treatment Options For Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Nutritional Support

Malnutrition is a troubling side effect of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis that can speed its progression. ALS patients have trouble obtaining and preparing food, and as the condition progresses, they can have trouble chewing and swallowing food. Intervention by a dietitian to prevent malnutrition through nutritional support can significantly delay the progression of the disease. Dietitians need to work closely with speech and swallowing therapists to devise an adequate diet the patient can access and swallow. As the disease progresses, most patients will need a feeding tube placed for sufficient nutrition. Proper nutritional support can increase an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patient's lifespan by up to eight months.