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Diet for Polio Patients

According to the Englewood Hospital and Medical Center, there are approximately 1.8 million Americans surviving polio, as of 2009. Polio patients may be wary of eating certain foods, as they are afraid that a lack of activity will make them cause weight, or they do not have the energy to prepare lavish meals. If you have polio, the solution is to add more protein in your diet, and to reduce the amount of sugar you eat, according to the book Diet Prevents Polio. Talk to your doctor before making dietary changes.

  1. Increase Protein

    • The Englewood Hospital and Medical Center recommends that polio patients increase the amount of protein in their diets in order to stay full longer and reduce cravings for complex carbohydrates. Plus, protein helps keep your blood sugar at a normal level and increases energy.

      According to the Englewood Hospital, polio patients reportedly have more energy that lasts throughout the day by eating protein as part of their breakfasts. Such energy is crucial for polio patients who expend so much of it by completing everyday tasks, such as getting dressed. The Englewood Hospital recommends that you eat a breakfast that consists of 16 grams of protein immediately after you wake up each morning, so that you will have ample energy to get ready for your day.

      You should eat approximately 70 grams of protein per day, depending upon your weight, according to the Englewood Hospital. Aim for foods rich in protein, but low in fat. Examples include cottage cheese, egg whites, skim milk, soy milk, yogurt, salmon and tofu.

    Reduce Sugar

    • In his book, Diet Prevents Polio, Dr. Benjamin Sandler discovered during the peak of the United States polio epidemic that increased sugar levels were a common trigger of polio symptoms. Such symptoms may include abdominal pain, headaches, weakness, dizziness, fatigue and excessive sweating. He also found that eating too many starchy foods results in low blood sugar levels, which makes you more susceptible to polio.

      Starchy foods and complex carbohydrates should be limited, especially if you have polio, as they can worsen your symptoms. Although sugar gives you instant energy, it does not provide you with the long-term energy that protein does. Plus, you will likely experience a sugar crash.

      Limit sources of sugars, like soda and candy. Swap white bread, pasta and rice for whole grain versions.

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