Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a debilitating disease that causes progressive damage to your nerve coverings, called myelin sheaths. When the myelin sheath becomes damaged, your nerves are less able to transmit impulses. Certain dietary changes might help to slow down the progression of MS and improve your overall health. Talk to your doctor before starting any special diet for MS.
Description
MS is an autoimmune disease in which your body's immune system attacks your central nervous system, causing inflammation around your brain and spinal cord, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although the true cause of the condition is unknown, MS appears to be most prevalent among women who live in certain geographic areas like New Zealand and southern parts of Australia, as well as the northern parts of Europe and the United States. MS symptoms can include problems with vision, physical coordination and bladder, as well as fatigue and numbness in parts of your body, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. MS symptoms tend to first occur when you're 20 to 40 years of age and can come and go throughout your lifetime.
Foods to Add
There are some studies that have connected dietary fat intake with MS symptoms and disease severity, according to the University of Michigan Health System. A report by researcher Dr. Roy Swank revealed significantly reduced mortality rates among MS patients who consumed a diet very low in animal fats and hydrogenated oils, according to a 1991 issue of "Nutrition." This diet would instead include foods containing monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, such as those from vegetable oils and fish, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. An overall healthy diet that consists of nutrient-rich foods also can help you control MS symptoms, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Foods to Avoid
Limiting or completely avoiding fatty foods, particularly those containing saturated fats, could slow down the progression of MS or reduce its severity, according to the University of Michigan Health System. You should eliminate fats from hydrogenated oils, meats and dairy. Limiting your intake of animal-derived foods like dairy products and meat might be especially beneficial, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. You also can try limiting or eliminating gluten from your diet; there is gluten in barley, wheat and rye, as well as breads and pasta.
Key Nutrients & Supplements
Important supplemental nutrients for people with MS include vitamins B1, B3, B12 and D. You also might benefit from fish oil or evening primrose oil supplements, or ginkgo, linoleic acid, phenylalanine, bee venom or threonine supplements, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Supplements of calcium, l-carnitine, inosine or magnesium might help to reduce your MS symptoms as well, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Talk with your physician before taking any kind of supplement.
Considerations
Keep in mind that these dietary changes won't "cure" MS. You shouldn't stop taking your normal medications or undergoing prescribed therapies for treating MS unless your doctor directs you to do so. Following a healthy lifestyle that consists of a nutritious diet and plenty of rest can help all people who suffer from MS, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Before you change your diet or exclude whole food groups, consult your healthcare provider and/or a registered dietitian.
