Nutrition for Duchenne 6, 7
Nutrition is the act or process of nourishing or being nourished. Research has indicated that proper nutrition is one component that can improve the overall quality of life for a person living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy. While there are several considerations regarding caloric consumption, including: physical activity, capability of ambulation, and steroid use, specialists in the field suggest that daily caloric consumption should be 80% of what individuals without Duchenne muscular dystrophy consume. Avoidance of excessive intake overall, salt intake not more than 1500 mg daily, and adequate calcium intake are recommended.
Keep in mind, it’s never too late to start! Meal planning is often an effective means with which to involve all members of the family. Engage support from your Health Care team, including a registered dietitian nutritionist or registered dietitian to develop a plan customized to your individualized needs.

Vitamins & Supplements 5
Daily calcium needs are based on actual intake. First step is to collect information on what intake is obtained from food and then determine if sufficient. When under the ideal amount, supplements can be added. It is important to determine the actual from food and then decide if additional is needed. A body can get TOO much calcium so it is imperative to work with your health care team to determine a plan best tailored to your child’s needs.
It is recommended to take a daily multivitamin that includes mineral supplements. Examples include: for young boys, chewable tablets such as Flintstones and for teens- Men’s multi-vitamins.
Additional Resources
Below are additional resources you may find useful.
Sources Referenced
1 Bushby K, et al. (2009). Diagnosis and management of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, part 1: implementation of multidisciplinary care. The Lancet Neurology, 73-93.
2 Bushby, K. et al. (2009). Diagnosis and management of Duchenne muscular dystrophy, part 2: implementation of multidisciplinary care. The Lancet Neurology, 177-189.
3 Estimate Serving Sizes With Household Objects (Or Your Hands…). (2012, February 7). Retrieved from TopsyTasty: http://topsytasty.com
4 From The Diagnosis and Management of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy : A Guide for Families. (2010).
5 Gloss, D., Moxley, R. T., Ashwal, S., & Oskoui, M. (2016). Practice guideline update summary: Corticosteroid treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Neurology, 465–472.
6 Godshall, LD, CCHMC, B. (n.d.).
7 Ramos-Platt, Neurologist, L. (n.d.).
8 Simona, S., Francesca, M., Maurizio, M., Sophie, G., Sciacco, M., & Susanna, E. (2017). Nutritional Challenges in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. Nutrients.
9 University of Virginia Health System: Digestive Health Center. (2014, October). Low FODMAP Diet. Retrieved from www.GInutrition.virginia.edu
10 University of Virginia Health System: Digestive Health Center. (2015, October). High Fiber. Retrieved from www.GInutrition.virginia.edu
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