Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most commonly experienced neurological disorders. MS affects almost one million U.S. adults and over two million people worldwide. MS is two to three times more common among women than men.
In this article, the ways MS Diet may affect MS are explained. Read on for a dietary guide to help you manage your MS symptoms.
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Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that gradually destroys the protective coverings around your nerve fibers. These protective coverings are called myelin sheaths.
Over time, multiple sclerosis can permanently damage nerves, affecting the communication between the brain and body.
Symptoms of MS may include:
Although diet cannot completely cure MS, some research suggests that making dietary changes may help people with MS better manage their symptoms, and in turn, improve their quality of life.
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There are no official dietary guidelines for MS because no two people with MS experience the disease in the same way. However, scientists believe that nutrition may have an influence. MS is more prevalent in Western societies than in developing nations, which indicates that diet may play a key role.
These recommendations for people with MS aim to help manage symptoms and improve the overall quality of life. Diet may help with MS in multiple ways, including:
Some evidence suggests that patterned diets, such as the ketogenic diet, may help improve MS symptoms. However, this research is still ongoing, and scientists need to investigate the role of diet in MS further.
Certain nutrients, including fish oil and vitamin B, may benefit people with mild to moderate MS. These nutrients may lead to better functioning and improved quality of life.
Increased fat, cholesterol, folate, iron, and magnesium intakes are associated with positive changes in symptoms. Decreased carb intake also appears to be beneficial.
Ketogenic diets and intermittent fasting for multiple sclerosis are currently being studied.
Some evidence suggests that a paleolithic diet with supplementation may help improve fatigue symptoms in MS patients.
There is evidence that people with multiple sclerosis may be more likely to be deficient in some nutrients, including vitamins A, B12, and D.
Taking vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, antioxidants, plant compounds, and melatonin may improve MS symptoms.
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There are no official dietary guidelines for MS. However, research suggests that making certain dietary changes may help slow the progression of the disease and manage MS symptoms to improve quality of life. Scientists need to do more research before making official recommendations about many dietary suggestions discussed above, but preliminary research is promising.
Foods to include in an MS-friendly diet include:
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