Multiple sclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease, which affects the brain and spinal cord. Nutrition is accepted as a potential environmental factor involved in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis. However, dietary support is not considered by physicians as a complementary treatment for multiple sclerosis. As of September 2011, there are no official guidelines for multiple sclerosis patients concerning trace minerals, vitamins or any supplements.
Multiple Sclerosis
Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease; the immune system produces antibodies that attack the cells of the protective myelin sheath around the neural cells. Gradually, this layer is destroyed. The transmission of electrical signals between the brain and the rest of the body slows down considerably. MedlinePlus reports that common symptoms of multiple sclerosis include memory and thinking problems, visual impairments, poor coordination and balance, muscle weakness and loss of bladder control. The cause of multiple sclerosis is not clear. Treatment only involves management of the symptoms.
Malnutrition
A study published in 2010 in the journal “Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery” reports that although nutritional status and dietary habits of multiple sclerosis patients have not been properly studied, individual findings suggest that many patients suffer from various forms of malnutrition. Malnutrition is linked with immune system malfunctions; it deteriorates mental function and respiratory muscle strength and increases the risk of specific nutrient deficiencies.
Preliminary Evidence
Vitamin D is the only nutrient for which scientists have found proof of multiple sclerosis mitigation. A study published in the journal “Multiple Sclerosis” confirms that sufficient vitamin D intake is associated with lower incidence of multiple sclerosis. Also, a comprehensive review published in the journal “The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society” reports that vitamin D deficiency is correlated with many autoimmune diseases, multiple sclerosis included. More evidence suggests the importance of critical antioxidants such as vitamin E. Serum levels of vitamin E are significantly lower in multiple sclerosis patients than in healthy individuals.
Although the existing evidence implies that indeed certain micronutrients are involved in the pathogenesis and development of multiple sclerosis, more studies are necessary to establish exactly which nutrients, and in what quantities, play either a preventative or healing role.
Conclusion
Nutrition seems to play an important role in the pathology and development of multiple sclerosis. With the exception of vitamin D, the role of minerals, trace elements, antioxidants or vitamins is still unclear. The possible relationships between diet and multiple sclerosis have not been subjected to adequate study and, therefore, no suggestions about potential benefits can be made.
References
- “Multiple Sclerosis”; Multiple Sclerosis and Nutrition; S. Schwarz S. and H. Leweling; February 2005
- MedlinePlus: Multiple Sclerosis
- “Complementary Therapies in Medicine”; The Molecular Basis of Nutritional Intervention in Multiple Sclerosis: A Narrative Review; P. Riccio; Aug. 19, 2011
- “Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery”; Nutrition in Multiple Sclerosis; M. Habek, et al.; September 2010
- “The Proceedings of the Nutrition Society”; Vitamin D and Immune Function: An Overview; M. Hewison; Aug. 18, 2011
- “Neuroscience Letters”; Cerebrospinal Fluid Levels of Alpha-tocopherol In Patients With Multiple Sclerosis; F. J. Jimenez-Jimenez., et al.; June 12, 1998
