Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a progressive, inflammatory disorder of the nervous system. A myelin sheath normally acts as an important protective barrier in the brain and spinal cord, and MS is characterized by scarring and destruction of the myelin sheath. MS is not curable, but certain dietary and lifestyle changes may help slow the progression and reduce the symptoms of the disease.
Foods to Avoid
According to Ross Trattler, N.D., in his book "Better Health Through Natural Healing" saturated fat, dairy, gluten, yeast and food preservatives are all thought to worsen MS, and he recommends avoiding them. Phyllis Balch says in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," that the best diet for MS sufferers is one that is void of all meat, dairy and eggs, because most animal products are high in saturated fat and can increase inflammation.
Foods to Eat
Balch recommends consuming a diet primarily of whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, beans, legumes and seeds. She also recommends eating organically grown foods because pesticides used on many conventionally grown foods may worsen MS symptoms.
Include Omega-3s
Balch recommends consuming plenty of foods rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, such as broccoli, flaxseed and cold-water fish, because omega-3s inhibit inflammation. Taking a fish oil supplement containing 1 to 2g of combined EPA and DHA, which are both omega-3 essential fatty acids, can be an alternative to eating fish.
Take a Probiotic
Other nutritional supplements may also be beneficial, but talk to your health-care practitioner before taking any supplement. Balch recommends taking a probiotic acidophilus supplement, saying that acidophilus will help put healthy bacteria into your gut to help detoxify your body, aid in digestion and increase the absorption of nutrients. CSNN suggests choosing a supplement from the refrigerator section of the health food store, and one that contains at least 5 billion active bacteria per serving.
Calcium and Magnesium
Balch also recommends taking 2,000 to 3,000mg of calcium and 1,000 to 1,500mg of magnesium daily. A deficiency in these minerals is found in many MS sufferers and magnesium is needed for proper muscular coordination and to reduce stress. Stress reduction is important, and Balch says that attacks of MS are often precipitated by periods of emotional distress.
Beneficial Activities
Although the reason is unclear, Trattler says that ocean swimming, regular sunshine exposure, outdoor living, regular exercise and showers that alternate between hot and cold water may all also benefit MS sufferers. Trattler also says that weekly spinal manipulations and massages along the spine may be helpful.
References
- "Pathology and Nutrition"; The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; Lilieana Stadler Mitrea; 2008
- "Better Health through Natural Healing"; Ross Trattler, N.D.; 2003
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing, Third Edition"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
