duals with CP to eat.
By using a blender, the need for chewing is nearly eliminated and the child can focus on slowly swallowing the drink.
Because oral motor impairments also make it difficult to swallow, choosing nutritionally-dense foods that don’t add a lot of volume such as nuts, fruits, and vegetables provide the best nutrition.
If necessary, blend vitamins into your child’s drink. Vitamins C, B6, and E can help boost your child’s immune system.
2. Use a Feeding Tube
If it is difficult for your child to chew or swallow, your physician may recommend using a feeding tube to ensure optimal nutrition.
About 1 in 15 individuals with cerebral palsy utilize a feeding tube.
Feeding tubes are surgically inserted through an opening in the abdominal wall and deliver food directly to the stomach.
3. Increase Daily Physical Activity
Making an effort to move around more will help promote circulation and keep the body functioning at its best. The more you move, the better equipped your body will be to fight off infections.
Regular exercise will also help regulate neurotransmitters in the brain and reduce stress levels.
4. Practice Deep Breathing
Deep breathing promotes full oxygen exchange, which helps activate your body’s relaxation response.
As a result, deep breathing may help reduce blood pressure, heart rate, and feelings of anxiety that suppress the immune system.
CP and Immunity: Key Points
Just because an individual has cerebral palsy does not mean they will have a weak immune system.
However, complications of CP such as reduced mobility, feeding problems, and high levels of stress may affect the body’s ability to function optimally.
Hopefully, this article provided understanding for the interaction between cerebral palsy and the immune system as well as suggestions to improve general health to live your best life. Good luck!