Best Diet for Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is a rare condition that leaves patients in an acute state of symmetrical muscle weakness. As a result, the muscles in the body lack the ability to become stiff or tense. There is currently no defined cure for GBS, and patients are often left with a lack of sensation in the sensory or motor nerves of the body.

Medication, lifestyle changes, and medical supervision are necessary for this condition, as the main goal of treatment is to relieve secondary symptoms and prevent breathing problems from occurring. Fortunately, studies reveal there are healthy diets that can help curb the severity of the symptoms.

What Is Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Guillain-Barre syndrome (GBS) is a severe autoimmune disorder that affects the peripheral nervous system, leading to the rapid progression of limb weakness. In most cases, GBS causes damage to the hands, limbs, and feet, ultimately leading to the lack or absence of reflex responses throughout the body.

Although the exact cause of GBS is unknown, it may be triggered by surgical procedures, bacterial infections, or viral infections. If detected early, GBS can be managed with numerous treatment options that have the potential to minimize the duration of the condition.

Guillain-Barre syndrome occurs at any age and in both genders. However, it affects adult males more than females.

Symptoms of Guillain-Barre Syndrome

According to research, in a small number of cases (approximately 1 in 20 patients), Guillain-Barre syndrome may be life-threatening. Often, the symptoms begin in the hands and feet before spreading to other parts of the body.

Symptoms of GBS include:

• Muscle weakness or numbness (pins and needles sensation) in the hands, limbs, and feet
• Balance or coordination problems
• Blurry vision
• Blood clots
• Paralysis of breathing muscles
• Chewing problems
• Severe swallowing issues
• High blood pressure

The symptoms may worsen over a period of a couple of weeks if the patient does not receive any medical attention. Therefore, it is best to reach out to your doctor if you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above.

Best Diet for Guillain-Barre Syndrome

Unfortunately, there is currently no evidence based data in humans to determine which diet is best for people with GBS. There is evidence to suggest that a high protein diet can help replenish muscle loss and improve resistance to lung infections. Focusing on a healthy diet can help reduce the severity of GBS. Below are examples of foods and beverages that may help reduce the severity of GBS:

Vegetables & Fruits

Diets consisting of more vegetables and fruits can help protect the body against nerve damage and improve nerve functioning.

Protein

Sufficient protein intake is required to ensure muscle repair and recovery. Protein can be found in lean meats, poultry, and plants, such as the ones  listed below:

• Seafood
• Eggs
• Beans
• Nuts
• Seeds
• Soy products
• Protein complementation (when you combine 2 vegetable proteins, such as legumes and grain) 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3’s may help combat muscle break down that can occur during GBS recovery. They may help nerve regeneration, reduce inflammation and help optimize remyelination of the nerves. Omega-3’s can be found in the below foods and beverages:

• Fish (especially cold water fish such as tuna, salmon, mackerel, herring and sardines)
• Plant Oils
• Fortified foods (such as certain brands of eggs, milk, soy and other plant beverages and yogurt) 

Green Tea

Many teas contain nutraceuticals that can improve human health. For instance, greeen tea contains a catechin called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which is a natural antioxidant shown to help slow down the body’s immune response and prevent damage to the cells and body. EGCG is also found in black, white, and oolong tea as well as foods such as berries, kiwis, pears, apples, peaches, avocados, pecans, hazelnuts and pistachios. 

Fermented Foods 

Fermented foods such as fermented vegetables may also be helpful, as they can improve your digestive health, thus improving your immunity.

Sensitivities

Your body may not tolerate certain foods and beverages, such as specific grains, legumes, vegetables, fruit, dairy, animal products, and food additives. You will want to avoid foods that you know harm your gut health.

Are There Foods You Should Avoid To Heal From Guillain-Barre Syndrome?

Below are certain foods that people suffering from Guillain-Barre syndrome should try to avoid while healing:  

• High-sugar added foods and beverages such as cake frostings, chocolate, soda (and other sweetened beverages), and high fructose corn syrup
• High-sodium foods
• Foods high in saturated and trans fats

The foods mentioned above can stimulate an immune response, which may worsen the symptoms of GBS. There are foods other than the above that may stimulate an unfavorable immune response and worsen symptoms of GBS, such as a diet high in ultra-processed food. Patients should take note of foods that aggravate symptoms and avoid them to protect themselves against continued side effects. 

Conclusion

Your diet is an important consideration when dealing with autoimmune disorders such as Guillain-Barre syndrome. Consuming a healthy diet that includes nutrient dense foods can help boost your immune system and support your wellness as you heal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a good diet cure Guillain-Barre syndrome?

At this time, no. However, a healthy diet can boost the body’s immune system, helping you have a higher quality of life.

Can certain foods worsen Guillain-Barre syndrome?

Yes, they can. Eating specific foods in excess or lacking certain nutrients in your diet can promote inflammation and can allow unpleasant symptoms to progress more quickly and severely.