There’s no known cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, but there are some things seniors can do to slow its onset.
1. Consume Red, Yellow, & Orange Vegetables
Eating red, yellow, and orange vegetables boosts health and may prevent or delay the symptoms of ALS. Bell peppers, carrots, tomatoes, and other colorful vegetables are rich in carotenoids, which delay cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders.
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2. Eat More Greens
Leafy greens such as spinach contain carotene and lutein, which delay the onset of ALS. Smoothies are a simple way to help your loved one add a serving of leafy greens to his or her diet. Just mix spinach with yogurt and fruit in a blender to make a nutrient-packed drink.
3. Increase Vitamin E Intake
Vitamin E reduces oxidative stress and keeps ALS at bay. Nuts, salmon, and sardines contain high amounts of vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids. Just one serving of almond milk can provide a full day’s supply of essential vitamins for most seniors.
4. Get Regular Exercise
When combined with a healthy diet rich in antioxidants, exercise can reduce the risk of Lou Gehrig’s disease. Gentle exercises such as swimming, gardening, and yoga can help seniors stay in shape and prevent ALS. Seniors should aim for at least thirty minutes of exercise at least three times a week to reduce the risk of ALS.
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5. Know the Risk Factors
About 10 percent of people diagnosed with Lou Gehrig’s disease are genetically predisposed to develop this condition, and genetic testing can determine whether your loved one is at risk for ALS. Other risk factors for Lou Gehrig’s disease include physical trauma such as injuries and exposure to environmental toxins. Your loved one can talk to the doctor to determine his or her risk of developing Lou Gehrig’s disease. The doctor can also provide information on identifying early symptoms and preventing or delaying the onset of ALS.
6. Receive Early Treatment
Although ALS isn’t always preventable, early treatment can slow the disease’s progression. Treatment options for ALS include taking prescription medications and engaging in physical therapy, assistive treatments, and speech therapy. Assistive treatments are usually provided during the later stages of the disease, but they may be provided earlier to promote a healthier prognosis. With early treatment, more invasive treatments and therapies can be delayed.
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