Multiple sclerosis, or MS, and is a chronic disabling disease that affects the central nervous system. DASH-sodium diet aims at reducing sodium to 1500 mg a day in order to reduce high blood pressure. The DASH-sodium diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) also focuses on consuming foods that lower high blood pressure such as fiber, whole grains and fruits and vegetables. Patients with MS may benefit from DASH-sodium diet.
Multiple Sclerosis
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommend that patients with MS eat a low-salt, low-fat and high-fiber diet. These are the same types of foods found in a DASH sodium-free diet for hypertension. MS patients may therefore benefit from the DASH diet because it is low in salt and fat and high in fiber.
Low-Sodium Diets
High sodium intake worsens the symptoms of multipe sclerosis, according to the National Academies Press. The DASH-sodium diet is beneficial to multiple sclerosis patients because it encourages patients to consume very low amounts of salt. Patients should avoid high-sodium foods such as processed foods, soy sauce, monosodium glutamate, bacon, hot dogs, seasoned salts, pickles and canned foods.
Low-Fat and Low-Cholesterol Diets
The DASH-sodium diet also limits saturated fats and cholesterol, and these foods benefit multiple sclerosis patients, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Animal products contain high amounts of saturated fats and cholesterol. Patients should be careful when choosing animal products and should opt for fat-free milk, lean meat, fish and skinned poultry. Examples of products with high amounts of cholesterol and saturated fats include bacon, pork, steak, hot dogs, whole milk, eggs, butter, margarine and mayonnaise.
Fruits and Vegetables
The DASH-sodium diet also encourages the consumption of foods high in potassium, such as fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants and vitamins that help prevent and improve symptoms of multiple sclerosis, according to the National Academies Press. Examples of fruits and vegetables that benefit MS patients include potatoes, broccoli, beans, spinach, squash, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, apricots, bananas, dates, grapes, prunes, raisins, strawberries, pineapples, grapefruit, mangoes, melons and peaches.
Whole Grain Products
The DASH-sodium diet encourages patients to consume whole grain products because they are high in fiber. The National Multiple Sclerosis Society advises MS patients to consume whole grain products because they are high on fiber, and therefore the DASH-sodium diet suits MS patients because it contains plenty of whole grain products. Examples of whole grain products include whole grain breads, whole grain cereals, oatmeal, bran and barley.
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