Jmbrown, I would think that the amount of muscle he is using at this point is minimal, based on you saying you can't understand his speech. I don't think trying to talk will speed the progression, it's only a matter of time that he won't be talking at all. My concern with him eating is more the chance of choking than the possibility of it speeding progression. My husband has bulbar onset ALS. He spoke and ate as long as he possibly could. I was thankful when he gave up speaking, it was SO difficult to understand him and was the source of a lot of frustration. The iPad was so much nicer for both of us. Same with eating, when he finally gave up eating entirely I was so relieved. His choking spells were becoming too numerous. Tell your friend to talk and eat as long as he wants, but to be prepared in advance for the loss of both. I hope he has considered a PEG tube, my husband got his early on and it has been a life saver.