Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects the fatty lining around the nerves in the brain and spinal cord. The subsequent damage and scarring of the nerve lining causes patients to experience reduced sensitivity, tingling, numbness, muscle spasms, poor balance, pain, fatigue and bowel disturbances. Multiple sclerosis is a progressive disease that can be managed with proper medical treatment and nutrition. Some vitamins may be especially beneficial for the management of multiple sclerosis.
Vitamin D
Patients with multiple sclerosis may benefit from getting an adequate supply of vitamin D. The UK Multiple Sclerosis Society states that patients can greatly benefit by supplementing their diet with vitamin D. Patients with multiple sclerosis are more likely to develop osteoporosis, in which the bones become porous and vulnerable to fracture. We get a significant amount of vitamin D from exposure to sunlight. Areas with low sunlight also have a higher rate of multiple sclerosis. It is especially important to get enough sunlight to absorb enough vitamin D. Canoe Health states that the recommended daily allowance is 200 to 600 IU, while 800 to 1,000 IU is recommended for the prevention of osteoporosis. Food sources of vitamin D include cow and soy milk, fish oils and fortified breads and cereals. Patients should work directly with their physician before making any significant changes to their diet.
B Vitamins
Patients with multiple sclerosis can also benefit by having a diet rich in B vitamins. The National MS Society states that vitamins B6 and B12 are especially beneficial for managing multiple sclerosis. Vitamin B6 is needed in amino acid conversion. Patients with multiple sclerosis often take vitamin B6 because it may help increase energy levels. Sources include salmon, tuna, pork, chicken, beans, bananas and some vegetables. The recommended daily allowance is 1.3 mg for adults ages19 to 50.
Vitamin B12 is responsible for the production of red blood cells and healthy functioning in the nervous system. A deficiency of vitamin B12 may even cause symptoms that mimic multiple sclerosis. People with multiple sclerosis often have low levels of vitamin B12. Food sources include eggs, meat, poultry, shellfish and dairy. The recommended daily allowance is 2.4 mcg for both men and women.
Vitamins C and A
Patients with multiple sclerosis may benefit by eating a diet rich in vitamin C. Canoe Health suggests that patients have a diet rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C is needed to heal and repair tissues. Patients with multiple sclerosis are more prone to bladder infections, while vitamin C helps to prevent bladder infections. Citrus fruits and tomatoes are high in vitamin C and the recommended daily allowance is 90 mg for men and 75 mg for women.
Vitamin A may also help manage the progression and symptoms of multiple sclerosis. The National MS Society suggests that patients have a diet rich in vitamin A, which can help patients with prevention and attain optimum health. Vitamin A helps with vision and cellular regulation. Vitamin A can be found in liver, eggs and cod liver oil. The recommended daily allowance is 2,300 IU for women and 3,000 IU for men.
