How Nutrition and Exercise Can Help Manage Narcolepsy Symptoms in Kids

Narcolepsy can make daily life challenging for kids. It can cause symptoms like excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), cataplexy (sudden muscle weakness), sleep paralysis (being unable to move while waking up or falling asleep), and hallucinations (seeing or hearing things that are not there).¹

While there is no cure for narcolepsy, healthy habits can make a big difference in helping symptoms. Good nutrition, exercise, and a healthy lifestyle – when combined with medicine and behavioral therapy – can help kids with narcolepsy manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being.^1,2

The importance of nutrition and diet for narcolepsy

There is no specific narcolepsy diet. Some research suggests that following a ketogenic diet, or “keto” diet, can help with narcolepsy symptoms and improve sleep quality. A keto diet is a very low-carbohydrate diet that is high in healthy fats. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of the keto diet on narcolepsy. Always talk with a doctor before adopting any new diet.^2,3

Here are some other food and nutrition tips that can be helpful for kids with narcolepsy:^1,2

• Focus on whole foods that are healthy and unprocessed.
• Avoid large, heavy meals late in the day.
• Avoid caffeine in the hours before bedtime.
• Avoid drinking lots of liquid right before bed.

The importance of exercise for narcolepsy

Research shows that regular physical activity can improve sleep quality. It can also boost energy levels during the day.^1,2

If your child is not getting enough physical activity during the day, here are some tips that might help:

• Find activities your child enjoys. It is easier to stay active if it is fun. Encourage your child to try different activities. This will help them find something they like. Maybe they enjoy playing soccer. Maybe they like dancing. The important thing is to get them moving more.^1,2
• Establish a routine. Make exercise a regular part of the day. This helps build healthy habits as they grow up.
• Exercise as a family. If you are concerned about your child’s safety – for instance, if they tend to have cataplexy episodes while being active – exercise together as a family. This way, you can keep an eye on your child and keep them safe while still getting physical activity.

Lifestyle changes for narcolepsy

Nutrition and exercise are important. But they are just part of the larger picture when it comes to managing pediatric narcolepsy. A healthy lifestyle includes other important habits. These habits can help you and your child manage narcolepsy symptoms:^1,2

Stick to a regular sleep schedule

Even though kids with narcolepsy have EDS, it is important that they maintain a regular sleep schedule. This means going to bed and waking up around the same time each day, even on weekends. A consistent sleep schedule helps regulate the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.^1,2

Create a relaxing bedtime routine

A relaxing bedtime routine can help improve sleep quality. This might include taking a warm bath, reading a book, or listening to calming music. Avoid screen time before bed. The light from electronic devices can interfere with sleep.^1,2

Schedule short naps during the day

Many people with narcolepsy find it helpful to schedule regular, short naps during the day to help ease symptoms. If you can, have your child take 20 to 30-minute naps at regular times of the day when they feel the most sleepy.¹

Manage stress

Stress can trigger cataplexy in kids with narcolepsy. So, try to find healthy ways to manage any stress in your child’s life. This might include spending time in nature, practicing deep breathing techniques, or being there for your child if they need to talk about their feelings.¹

Work with your child's doctor

Work closely with your child's doctor. They can help develop a comprehensive treatment plan. This plan may include medicine, lifestyle changes, and other therapies. They can also monitor your child's progress and make changes to their treatment plan as needed.¹

Small changes can make a big difference

By focusing on good nutrition, regular physical activity, and a healthy lifestyle, kids with narcolepsy can manage their symptoms and live a full, active life. Remember, small changes can make a big difference.