A healthier diet could do wonders for your body while living with multiple sclerosis (MS). This is important for African Americans, who are more likely to suffer more relapses, and more disabilities because of MS
Diets including fresh fruits, low-fat protein, low-fat dairy and vegetables can result in fewer relapses. In fact, experts say, a poor diet can actually increase the activity of the disease affecting your body.
READ: Tamia: Life After Multiple Sclerosis
Here is a list of foods to avoid if you have MS:
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Saturated Fats
You can find saturated fats in red meats, full-fat dairy products like whole milk, and any other animal-based foods. Though saturated fats don’t directly affect MS, it is known to raise your bad cholesterol level, of LDL. A high cholesterol level can increase your chances of heart attack and stroke. According to a 2013 study in the journal Multiple Sclerosis, MS patients – especially women – are at higher risk of heart disease and heart flutter.
Trans Fats
Anything soaked in hydrogenated oils or shortening, leave it on the shelf, according to Amy Jamieson-Petonic, RD, director of wellness coaching at the Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute in Ohio. These foods include baked cookies, pies and crackers.
Sugar
As with anything, too much sugar is bad for you. For those with MS, sugar increases fatigue, a common symptom of MS, because of the weight gain associated with too much sugar.
Sodium
Salt is another one of those things that’s bad for the body. A 2015 study in the journal Neurology showed that more sodium intake led to more chances of relapse for MS patients, and a greater risk for developing new lesions. Also, lots of sodium increases your blood pressure. Anything less than 1,500 milligrams (mg) of sodium a day is good for MS patients.
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Refined Grains
Processed carbs – like white rice, white bread and cold cereal – can elevate blood sugar and lead to heart disease. A 2010 study found that women who ate the most processed carbs were at a greater risk for heart attack and stroke, and even diabetes, according to Jamieson-Petonic.
Gluten
Gluten-free diets are trendy now. In fact, people with MS have a higher incidence of gluten intolerance than others, according to a study published in BMC Neurology in 2011. Gluten intolerance is known as celiac disease, which is an autoimmune disease. Reducing the amount of gluten you consume daily can help with any symptoms you’re experiencing with MS. Foods with wheat, barley and rye contain the protein, gluten.
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