It’s a good idea for Pompe patients to follow a sensible, high-protein / low-carbohydrate diet, to ensure that our bodies do not have extra problems to cope with, due to poor nutrition.
Healthy eating and regular exercise, along with treatment, are important for Pompe patients.
However, there are many reasons why some patients may not be able to take adequate nutrition, and there are several ways of helping with that. Please refer to the resources page for more information.
Sometimes, in very severe cases of Pompe disease, patients no longer have the stamina to eat enough to sustain the body’s needs, or have lost too much weight. In these cases it may become necessary for the patient to have a gastrostomy. This is an external surgical opening into the stomach, which allows for supplemental tube feeding, so that complete nutrition can be provided.
“If you don’t use it you will lose it!” This applies especially to Pompe patients.
Regular exercise will help your muscles and will benefit your whole body. It will also make you feel better about yourself.
Light to moderate aerobic exercise, such as walking, will help to strengthen the muscles. Some daily light stretching and regular movement helps us to stay flexible, will help to prevent muscle stiffness and will improve muscle tone. Some of our members do at least some walking every day, others do Pilates exercises, use a treadmill, or follow an exercise routine set by their physiotherapist.
Exercise should never be extreme or stressful, but should be within comfortable limits.
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