Nutritional status and energy metabolism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients / 中华神经科杂志

ABSTRACT

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is the most common motor neuron disease characterized by progressive muscle wasting and weakness, bulbar paralysis and pyramidal sign. Due to rapid deterioration in several years, patients always die from respiratory failure. Until now, no effective treatment has been discovered. Nutrition and metabolism are fundamental in all human existence, which may also correlate with the development and progression of ALS. Early assessment of nutritional and metabolic status and individualized dietary intervention may prolong life-span of patients with ALS. Therefore, the article reviewed the nutritional status and energy metabolism in ALS patients, and sought proper dietary management patterns.