Multiple Sclerosis

It is estimated that MS affects more than 2 million people worldwide and is the most common cause of neurological disability in young adults worldwide, the vast majority of them being women. MS typically affects persons between age 30 and 50, but MS can be seen at any age.

Early MS symptoms may include:

• weakness/fatigue
• loss of balance
• problems with coordination
• tremors
• tingling and/or numbness
• blurred or loss of vision
• muscle stiffness/cramping
• thinking problems
• depression
• bowels problems
• facial or eye pain

It is still unclear what exactly causes MS in individuals, but experts believe it is a combination of genetic and environmental factors such as diet, toxin exposures, and intestinal bacteria imbalance. Many investigators also think that having a low vitamin D level may be a risk factor. Also, certain viral illnesses may play a role in MS.

Diet

• Identify specific or general triggers to the disease to reduce or remove (which may be individual to each person). Many with MS will find they experience fewer symptoms by removing gluten, processed foods such as sugar, and animal products. Other foods are less common triggers, such as certain nuts, soy, nightshades, or corn, for example.
• Maximize the intake of immune system-regulating, anti-inflammatory foods such as high fiber, high micronutrient-dense foods, especially green vegetables.
• Cruciferous vegetables are recommended to be eaten every day.
• Those with MS that eat more fruits and vegetables and less animal products tend to have fewer symptoms.¹
• Fruit can be a trigger for some patients; fruit intake may need to be reduced to 2-3 small servings daily.
• Anti-inflammatory spices such as turmeric, ginger, cayenne pepper, black pepper, cloves, garlic, and cinnamon should be used to season dishes.
• Talk to your doctor before and after making changes to your diet and supplement regimen if you have a chronic disease or if you are taking any medication, as medication changes may be necessary.

Vitamin D

It is thought that taking supplemental vitamin D to reach an optimal blood level possibly may lower your risk of developing MS and may reduce MS disease activity.² Talk to your doctor about testing your vitamin D level.

Probiotics

Research has suggested that healthy bacteria in our intestines may be protective and help to keep a normal functioning immune system. Although eating a fiber-rich diet helps to build up healthy bacteria over time, many with multiple sclerosis find it helpful to take supplemental probiotics. Ask your doctor to discuss if taking probiotics is right for you.

Omega-3 supplementation

Taking supplemental omega-3 fatty acids may provide benefits to persons with MS, due to their anti-inflammatory properties.³ High doses may be necessary for the most benefit. If considering higher doses of omega-3 supplementation, discuss this with your doctor first as it is not appropriate for everyone.