Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a disease of the central nervous system. According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, nerve fibers are affected and the body becomes unable to send signals from the brain and spinal cord to the muscles of the body. Symptoms of MS include fatigue, numbness, balance problems, trouble walking, vision problems, constipation, pain, depression and spastic muscle movements. Following a certain diet can help lessen symptoms associated with MS.
Saturated Fats
A person with MS should aim for a diet low in saturated fats, including trans fats. Most saturated fats come from animal sources like meat and dairy. In a study published in "The Lancet" in 1990 by Dr. Robert Swank, dietary fats were analyzed. Dr. Swank recruited 144 patients with MS and put them on a low-fat diet consisting of less than 20 grams of fat per day. The participants were followed for 34 years. Some participants stuck with the diet, others didn't. At the end, the participants that adhered to the low-fat diet had less likelihood of dying from MS and showed less deterioration.
Unsaturated Fats
According to the MS Society, unsaturated fats should replace saturated fats. Certain polyunsaturated fats like omega-3 and omega-6 can be helpful if you have MS. These fats have a tendency to decrease the severity and number of MS attacks. In addition, omega-3 can help improve mood and memory. Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids can be found in fish, leafy green vegetables, seeds, nuts and grains.
Fiber
Constipation usually accompanies MS. Inactivity and a slowed nervous system response can cause intestinal discomfort. Fiber can help you maintain regularity. According to the MS Society, you should try to get 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day. High fiber foods include cereals, nuts, grains, fruits and vegetables.
Vitamins and Minerals
If you have MS, you should aim for a well-balanced diet filled with all of the necessary vitamins and minerals. A study published in "Neurology" in 2004 by Kassandra Munger and colleagues, found that vitamin D is important if you have MS. This study followed 95,000 women from 1991 to 2001 and assessed vitamin D intake and prevalence of MS. The study found that women who had more than 400 iu of vitamin D per day had a decreased chance of developing MS. The results show that vitamin D is effective at delaying and preventing MS.
Considerations
If you have MS, it is always best to consult with your physician before changing your diet or adding supplements. Any other diseases or syndromes that you have should be considered before changing your diet. Physical activity is a diet's best friend, especially if you have MS. The combination of diet and exercise can help delay progression of MS.
References
- The National Multiple Sclerosis Society: Symptoms
- Science Direct: "Effect of Low Saturated Fat Diet in Early and Late Cases of Multiple Sclerosis"
- "Momentum"; Is There An MS Diet?; Herron, Greta; 2008
- Neurology: Vitamin D Intake and Incidence of Multiple Sclerosis
