Why should you maintain a good diet?
Studies have revealed that Huntington patients are always underweight for their height, and require more calories than normal per day. This is because their constant jerky movements and metabolic changes lead to higher energy needs.
Patients with Huntington’s disease who are also underweight are more likely to; lose muscle mass and feel weaker, catch infection and wounds that will take longer to recover, develop pressure ulcers, and have their mobility reduced. A specialized diet change will ensure that patients receive enough calories through balanced diets and can overcome their eating limitations.
The three most crucial dietary factors in a brain-healthy diet are vitamin B-12, anti-oxidants, and anti-inflammatory agents. Many foods provide these substances, so you can take your pick of these foods to incorporate into the patient’s diet. Try to include at least one at every meal.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is found in animal foods (meat, dairy, eggs, poultry, etc.). B12 keeps the body’s nerves and blood cells healthy and helps make DNA.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants protect your cells from free radicals in other words “bad” cells in the body. COLOR is important when choosing foods with antioxidant properties – foods with deep, rich colors tend to be higher in antioxidants. Choose a variety of fruits and vegetables to get the most benefit.
Essential Fatty Acids — Omega 3 & Healthy Fats
Omega 3 fatty acids are helpful to reduce inflammation throughout the body. They also can reduce triglycerides (and have a blood-thinning effect so check with your doctor before taking a supplement). Other healthy fats include olive oil, nut butter, and avocados.
Tube Feeding
Feeding tubes are usually recommended when a person is no longer able to take in adequate amounts of nutrients by mouth to maintain their weight at a healthy point. Ideally, this should be decided while the person is still able to consider the pros and cons for themselves, and well in advance of the need for tube feeding. Often, having liquids and formula feedings via tube the pressure of meeting an individual’s calorie needs.
As Huntington’s disease progresses, many individuals struggle to cope in their own environment and be cared for safely at home. This is where we come in, Comfort paradise HCA specialized in-home care assessment. Our professionally trained caregivers are able to provide the compassionate and tailored care needed to support each individual, adapting to changing requirements along the way.
We believe that with a compassionate and person-centered approach, we can support individuals to live life to the fullest whilst helping to maintain social relationships with family, friends, and the community. We understand the importance of sensitive care and support to improve an individual’s physical and emotional wellbeing. For reliable in-home care, services contact us: (323) 844-0707.
References:
Nutrition | Huntington’s Disease Society of America. https://hdsa.org/find-help/living-well-with-hd/nutrition/