When someone has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a progressive neurological disease that breaks down nerve cells controlling muscles. Also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, it slowly steals the ability to move, speak, swallow, and breathe. But while there’s no cure, ALS nutrition, the targeted approach to eating and drinking that supports energy, muscle, and safety can make a real difference in how someone feels day to day.
As muscles weaken, chewing and swallowing get harder. Food can go down the wrong way, leading to choking or pneumonia—a leading cause of death in ALS. That’s why texture matters. Soft, moist foods like mashed potatoes, yogurt, and blended soups are safer than dry crackers or tough meats. Thickened liquids help too; thin water or juice can slip into the lungs before the body can react. Many people with ALS switch to pureed meals or use thickening powders—simple changes that prevent hospital visits. And because the body burns more calories just to breathe and keep the heart going, cutting back on food means losing weight too fast. That’s dangerous. Keeping weight stable isn’t optional—it’s part of staying alive longer.
Some meds for ALS, like riluzole, can cause nausea or loss of appetite. Others, like muscle relaxants or sleep aids, make you drowsy during meals. That’s why timing matters. Eating when you’re most alert—usually in the morning—helps. Smaller, more frequent meals beat three big ones. High-calorie shakes with protein and healthy fats (like peanut butter, avocado, or whole milk) are easy to sip and pack in energy without chewing. Vitamin D and calcium help bones stay strong, especially if movement drops. And because constipation is common (from less activity, certain meds, or not drinking enough), fiber from cooked veggies, oats, or psyllium helps—but only if you can swallow it safely. Never force solid fiber if swallowing is hard. Talk to a speech therapist or dietitian before adding anything new.
What you avoid is just as important. Crunchy nuts, raw apples, sticky candies, and dry bread can block the airway. Alcohol and caffeine dry out your mouth, making swallowing harder. Salt-heavy processed foods raise blood pressure and fluid retention, which strains the heart and lungs. And while supplements like coenzyme Q10 or creatine sound promising, studies haven’t shown they help. Stick to proven strategies: good calories, safe textures, and hydration. You’re not just feeding a body—you’re protecting it.
Below, you’ll find real, practical advice from people living with ALS and the doctors who help them. From meal prep hacks to dealing with feeding tubes, these posts cover what actually works when every bite counts.
Noninvasive ventilation and PEG nutrition are proven ways to extend life and improve daily living for ALS patients. Starting early-before breathing or swallowing becomes critical-can add months to survival and restore quality of life.
