Developing targeted dietary interventions for adults with Muscular Dystrophy
We are currently conducting a research project aimed at addressing the critical lack of dietary guidance for adults with various forms of Muscular Dystrophy. In addition to Muscular dystrophy directly impacting the muscle, individuals often face serious complications such as obesity, glucose intolerance, and metabolic disease. Since physical activity is often not a viable intervention, especially for those with significant functional impairments, nutrition has emerged could be a promising modifiable factor.
This study is evaluating the typical dietary habits of adults with muscular dystrophy, identifying nutritional inadequacies, and examining how these relate to key health outcomes including muscle strength, metabolic function, and quality of life. By exploring these associations, we aim to establish the foundation for targeted, evidence-based dietary interventions that could improve health, manage co-morbidities, and enhance day-to-day life for individuals with muscular dystrophy.
Dietary Protein in Beckers Muscular Dystrophy
As with our other research, this project in men with Becker Muscular Dystrophy (BMD) is focused on finding practical ways to improve the lives of adults living with the condition. While a cure may still be decades away, this study aims to identify immediate, effective interventions to enhance physical function and quality of life. Because physical activity is often not feasible for individuals with BMD, we are exploring the role of dietary protein—already known to support muscle health in other conditions.
This research is investigating typical protein intake habits in adults with BMD, assessing how their bodies respond to protein compared to those without the condition, and evaluating whether increased protein intake can lead to meaningful improvements. Our findings aim to shape new dietary guidelines and provide an accessible, nationwide intervention that could make a real difference now. This project is funded by Muscular Dystrophy UK.
Quality of life in FSHD and LGMD
This research project is focused on improving quality of life (QoL) for adults living with limb girdle muscular dystrophy (LGMD) and facioscapulohumeral dystrophy (FSHD). While previous studies have explored how issues like poor sleep, pain, fatigue, and depression affect QoL in these conditions, this project is taking a more comprehensive approach by examining how these factors vary between men and women, and how social exclusion may also play a role.
We are currently gathering insights through an online survey and in-depth conversations with people living with LGMD and FSHD to better understand the unique challenges they face. These findings will inform the co-development of a behaviour change intervention that aims to tackle key barriers and promote factors that support improved QoL. This project is funded by Muscular Dystrophy UK.