There is no specific diet for narcolepsy. However, there is anecdotal evidence that a ketogenic or “keto” diet may reduce symptoms. increase.
There is limited scientific evidence to support the keto diet for narcolepsy, but some people report it helps them.
Dietary changes can also help maintain a healthy weight. Narcolepsy doesn’t just affect sleep. Doctors associate narcolepsy with weight gain and obesity, even when consuming typical amounts of calories.
Avoiding certain foods that can interfere with sleep, such as those containing caffeine or alcohol, may also help.
To learn more about narcolepsy, diet, and how nutrition can help with narcolepsy symptoms, keep reading.
Some individuals believe that certain dietary changes can help manage the symptoms of narcolepsy. Anecdotal reports suggest that the keto diet may benefit some people.
However, there is a lack of clinical research proving that the keto diet reliably reduces symptoms or can be safely continued in the long term.
Keto diets are typically very low in carbs and high in fat. That is, the body uses its own stored fat for energy instead of carbohydrates from food.
A small 2004 study of nine people found that the keto diet improved daytime sleepiness by about 18% after eight weeks.
Researchers aren’t sure how the keto diet might help people with narcolepsy, but it may have something to do with regulating blood sugar levels.
Hypocretin is a chemical that regulates sleep patterns. People with narcolepsy, which is accompanied by cataplexy and sudden muscle weakness, often have low levels of this neurotransmitter.
By keeping blood sugar levels low, the keto diet may increase neuronal activation and reduce daytime fatigue.
Another potential benefit of dietary changes for narcolepsy is weight management.
There is no specific diet for narcolepsy, and very few studies have compared different diet types for this condition. Diet.
The macronutrients that make up the keto diet are usually divided into these
- Fat: 55% to 60%
- Protein: 30%-35%
- Carbs: 5% to 10%
Specifically, a 2,000 calorie daily diet will have 20 to 50 grams (g) of carbohydrates per day. Additionally, fat ranges vary by keto diet and are as follows:
In contrast, regular low-carb diets are less strict. Typically, non-ketogenic, low-carb diets eat less.
However, the keto diet is very restrictive, so it’s important to consult a doctor or registered dietitian before trying it. They can help ensure that someone is still getting the nutrients they need.
Whether or not a person tries the keto diet for narcolepsy, there are some foods that doctors recommend limiting or avoiding when someone has this condition.
Consuming foods containing caffeine, such as coffee and chocolate, later in the day can make it difficult to fall asleep. While it may be possible to strategically use caffeine in the morning to wake you up, some people feel more awake without caffeine.
In addition, people with narcolepsy should limit or avoid alcohol. It may make you sleepy temporarily, but it interferes with your overall sleep.
If someone follows the keto diet, they should limit their daily carbohydrate intake to
- Sugary foods such as sweets and cakes
- Grains such as white bread and pasta
- Starchy vegetables such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin
- Legumes such as beans and oats
- most fruits such as bananas and grapes
Low-carb fruits and vegetables can be part of the keto diet. It’s important to include these for their fiber, vitamins and minerals.
- Avocado
- berry
- olive
- lemon
- lime
- Leafy vegetables
- green pepper
If you’re interested in trying the keto diet, you can work with a registered dietitian or doctor. should stay.
Find an example of a 7-day keto meal plan.
In addition to dietary changes, managing narcolepsy may include lifestyle strategies such as:
- Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, even on weekends
- Get some natural light in the morning
- Make time to relax before bed
- Make sure your sleeping environment is cool, quiet, and dark
- 15-20 minute strategic naps during the day
- Reduce stress whenever possible and try relaxation techniques like yoga and deep breathing
- Exercise regularly, but not at night.
- Eat in moderation at night to avoid feeling uncomfortably full
If a person with narcolepsy is having trouble managing their symptoms or wants to try certain dietary changes, they can talk to their doctor.
Your doctor may refer someone to a nutritionist for advice on nutrition and weight management.Alternatively, if dietary changes don’t help, your doctor can do
There is no specific narcolepsy diet, but some people report that the keto diet helps them.
There is very little scientific evidence to suggest that this diet plan works reliably or is a beneficial long-term management strategy. Please consult.
Other lifestyle strategies, such as a consistent sleep schedule and stress management, can help manage narcolepsy symptoms. However, if these strategies don’t help, your doctor may also recommend trying medication.
