Muscle weakness is one of the most challenging symptoms of ALS. It often starts subtly—struggling to button a shirt, feeling unusually tired after a short walk—but over time, it progresses, making everyday tasks harder.
But you are not powerless.
While ALS does impact muscle function, there are steps you can take to preserve strength, improve mobility, and support your body’s energy production for as long as possible.
Why Does ALS Cause Muscle Weakness?
In ALS, motor neurons—the nerve cells responsible for muscle movement—begin to degenerate. When these neurons stop sending signals, muscles no longer receive stimulation, leading to weakness and atrophy.
Several factors contribute to muscle decline:
✅ Energy production slows down – Motor neurons struggle to produce ATP (the energy cells need to function), making muscles tire out faster.
✅ Muscles aren’t being used as much – With fewer active neurons, muscles receive less stimulation, leading to disuse and loss of strength.
✅ Inflammation and oxidative stress – ALS creates an environment where free radicals damage cells, accelerating muscle breakdown.
This is why muscle weakness progresses over time, affecting mobility, grip strength, and the ability to perform daily activities.
The good news? There are ways to slow this process down.
5 Strategies to Maintain Muscle Strength in ALS1. Fuel Your Muscles with the Right Nutrition
Muscles need fuel to function properly, and that starts with a nutrient-dense diet.
🥑 Focus on:
✔ Healthy fats (avocados, olive oil, nuts) – Provide long-lasting energy.
✔ Lean proteins (chicken, fish, eggs) – Help support muscle tissue.
✔ Antioxidant-rich foods (berries, leafy greens) – Help combat oxidative stress.
Many people with ALS struggle with unintentional weight loss, which can accelerate muscle decline. Increasing calorie intake—especially from healthy fats—can help prevent this.
2. Support Your Muscles at the Cellular Level
Muscles need fuel, but they also need the right building blocks to function efficiently. The Deanna Protocol was developed to support motor neurons and energy production, helping slow muscle fatigue and weakness.
🚀 Key ingredient: AAKG (Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate)
✔ Helps motor neurons produce more energy.
✔ Supports muscle endurance.
✔ May slow down muscle fatigue.
By giving cells the nutrients they need to function optimally, many people report feeling less tired and more capable of daily activities when using the Deanna Protocol.
3. Keep Moving (But Be Smart)
Exercise can be both beneficial and risky with ALS. Too much can increase fatigue, but the right amount of movement can help maintain flexibility, mobility, and muscle function.
🏃♂️ Best types of movement for ALS:
✔ Range-of-motion exercises – Keeps joints flexible and reduces stiffness.
✔ Light resistance training – Helps maintain muscle function.
✔ Breathing exercises – Supports respiratory muscles.
💡 Tip: Work with a physical therapist who understands ALS to create a movement plan that’s safe and sustainable.
4. Reduce Stress on Your Muscles
As muscles weaken, it’s important to conserve energy for the things that matter most. Small lifestyle adjustments can reduce strain and help maintain independence longer.
💡 Energy-saving tips:
✔ Use adaptive tools (easy-grip utensils, button hooks, grab bars).
✔ Break up tasks into smaller steps.
✔ Use a wheelchair or walker when needed to prevent falls.
✔ Rest between activities to avoid exhaustion.
Conserving energy doesn’t mean giving up—it means being strategic so you can stay active longer.
5. Get the Right Support
ALS is unpredictable, and every journey is different. Having the right support system—both physically and emotionally—makes all the difference.
💬 What caregivers can do:
✔ Assist with stretching and movement exercises.
✔ Prepare nutritious meals that support muscle health.
✔ Provide emotional support through social activities and encouragement.
No one fights ALS alone. Lean on family, friends, caregivers, and support communities to make sure you’re getting the help you need.
Final Thoughts: Strength is More Than Just Muscles
ALS may affect muscle strength, but it does not define your ability to live fully. By focusing on nutrition, cellular support, strategic movement, and energy conservation, you can help slow muscle weakness and maintain your quality of life for longer.
If you’re looking for ways to support muscle function and energy levels, the Deanna Protocol is designed to give motor neurons the nutrients they need to stay as strong as possible, for as long as possible.
👉 Learn more about how the Deanna Protocol can support muscle health here.
