Muscle weakness is one of the most challenging symptoms of ALS. It can start subtly—trouble buttoning a shirt, feeling unusually tired after walking short distances—but over time, it progresses, making everyday tasks harder.
But here’s what you need to know: you are not powerless. While ALS does affect muscle function, there are steps you can take to help preserve strength, improve mobility, and support your body’s energy production.
Let’s break down why ALS causes muscle weakness and what you can do to stay as strong as possible for as long as possible.
Why Does ALS Cause Muscle Weakness?
In ALS, the motor neurons that control muscle movement begin to degenerate. When these neurons stop sending signals, the muscles they control don’t receive the stimulation they need to stay strong and functional. Over time, the muscles shrink (a process called atrophy) and become weaker.
Several factors contribute to this decline:
✅ Energy production slows down – Motor neurons struggle to produce ATP (cellular energy), making muscles tire out faster.
✅ Muscles aren’t being used as much – As motor neurons die, muscles receive fewer signals, 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 people with ALS often experience progressive weakness, affecting their ability to walk, lift objects, and perform daily activities.
So, what can you do to slow this process down?
4 Strategies to Maintain Muscle Strength in ALS
1. Feed Your Muscles the Right Fuel
Muscles need energy to function properly, and that starts with proper nutrition.
🥑 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) – Combat oxidative stress
Many ALS patients also struggle with unintentional weight loss, which can accelerate muscle decline. Eating more calories—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. The Deanna Protocol was designed to support motor neurons and help cells generate energy more efficiently, which can help slow muscle fatigue and weakness.
🚀 Key ingredient: AAKG (Arginine Alpha-Ketoglutarate)
✔ Helps motor neurons produce more energy
✔ Supports muscle endurance
✔ Slows down muscle fatigue
By giving cells the nutrients they need to work optimally, many people report feeling less tired and more capable of daily activities when using the Deanna Protocol.
3. Keep Moving (But Smartly)
Exercise is beneficial for ALS. However, it is important to listen to your body as you don’t want to exercise to a point where your muscles are completely fatigued. The right amount of exercise can help maintain flexibility, mobility, and muscle function.
🏃♂️ Best types of movement for ALS:
✔ Range-of-motion exercises and stretching– Keeps joints flexible and reduces stiffness
✔ Resistance training – Helps maintain muscle function
✔ Breathing exercises – Keeps respiratory muscles stronger
💡 Tip: Work with a physical therapist who understands your goals and can help you achieve them safely.
4. Get the Right Support
ALS is unpredictable, and every journey is different. Having the right support system—both physically and emotionally—can make all the difference.
💬 What caregivers can do:
✔ Help with stretching and movement exercises
✔ Prepare nutritious meals that support muscle health
✔ Encourage mental well-being through social activities and support groups
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 keep living 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 your muscles and energy levels, the Deanna Protocol can help. It’s 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.
