Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a chronic auto-immune disease characterized by lesions that appear on the nerves as a result of damage to the myelin sheaths covering the nerves by the immune system. Exacerbations, or periodic flare-ups of MS symptoms, occur when your immune system mistakenly identifies myelin as an invader and attacks. Depending on the areas of the neurological system that are affected, MS can cause mild, moderate or severe impairment. Traditional medicine treats the symptoms of MS, which can include cognitive problems, numbness, tingling and vision problems. Fortunately, nutritional approaches can help decrease some of the effects of MS. Check with your doctor before using any nutritional approach.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that your body is unable to manufacture without an outside source such as food or supplements. Omega-3's are naturally found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines. Additionally, you can get omega-3's from flaxseeds, flaxseed oil and walnuts, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. Omega-3 fatty acids, they add, have been found in two clinical trials to decrease the progression of MS, as well as the number of flare-ups. While the evidence for omega-3 fatty acids' effect on MS is favorable, it is not conclusive. Foods that contain these fats, however, are associated with decreased risk of other illnesses, such as cardiovascular disease, and are considered safe for regular consumption.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that is minimally available from the foods you eat. The vitamin is necessary for cell growth, immunity and management of inflammation. According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin D appears to play a part in the prevention and modulation of multiple sclerosis. Many foods such as milk and some cereals are now fortified with vitamin D, and regular exposure to natural light without burning also helps your body manufacture this vitamin. Check with your physician before taking a vitamin D supplement, however, because an excess in your body can lead to toxicity.
Avoid Food Allergens
According to the Neurology Channel, allergies to certain foods can cause problems for people living with MS. Additionally, Dr. Hinton Jonez explains in "California Medicine" that MS exacerbations might be caused in part by the body's allergic response. In this case, an elimination diet is indicated to identify the source of the allergen. This diet is administered by either gradually eliminating common food allergens, such as milk products, or by eliminating a food that appears to cause an allergic response in an individual. After elimination of any food, wait for symptoms to subside, then reintroduce the food, monitoring for symptoms. If symptoms return, avoiding the food source is recommended.
Increase Dietary Fiber
Dietary fiber is important for proper functioning of your digestive system. This can help your body absorb nutrients from the foods you eat and prevent constipation. Part of the nutritional recommendations provided by the Neurology Channel include increasing dietary fiber. In addition, you should increase your intake of water, which is necessary for fiber to eliminate waste products from your body. Fiber can be increased by eating more fruits, vegetables and whole grains or by adding a third of a cup of ground flaxseed to your food daily.
