Practical Nutrition Guidelines for Individuals with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy

Appropriate nutrition is a fundamental contributor to the health and quality of life of boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), yet there are few nutrition guidelines. DMD is an X-linked disease caused by mutations in the gene encoding the dystrophin protein resulting in its absence from a number of tissues. Striated and smooth muscles are essential to digestion, and both are dysfunctional in the absence of dystrophin. Obesity and underweight are prevalent within the condition. Nutritional assessment involves determining nutrient needs and reviewing anthropometric and biochemical data, physical findings, nutritional implications of medications, and the client history. The purpose of this chapter is to provide guidance to the members of the multidisciplinary healthcare team, but especially the physician and registered dietitian. Herein, we review existing research and make recommendations for nutritional assessment, including strategies to counter fundamental nutrition concerns for DMD boys. In addition, common nutrient constituents and supplements, reported to alleviate some deleterious aspects of DMD, and potential drug-nutrient interactions are reviewed.