- Preventing or controlling the disease
- Helping manage symptoms
- Reducing flare-ups
An ideal MS-friendly diet should be:
- High in antioxidants to fight inflammation
- High in fiber to aid in bowel movements
- Calcium and vitamin D to fight osteoporosis
- Other vitamins and minerals to fight fatigue and promote health and wellness
Limit foods that have been linked to chronic inflammation and other poor health outcomes, such as fried foods and foods high in sugar. These foods may make day-to-day activities more difficult for those with MS.
Some evidence suggests that patterned diets, such as the ketogenic diet, may help improve MS symptoms. However, this research is still ongoing, and scientists need to investigate the role of diet in MS further.
Certain nutrients, including fish oil and vitamin B, may benefit people with mild to moderate MS. These nutrients may lead to better functioning and improved quality of life.
Increased fat, cholesterol, folate, iron, and magnesium intakes are associated with positive changes in symptoms. Decreased carb intake also appears to be beneficial.
Ketogenic diets and intermittent fasting for multiple sclerosis are currently being studied.
Some evidence suggests that a paleolithic diet with supplementation may help improve fatigue symptoms in MS patients.
There is evidence that people with multiple sclerosis may be more likely to be deficient in some nutrients, including vitamins A, B12, and D.
Taking vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, antioxidants, plant compounds, and melatonin may improve MS symptoms.
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Summary
There are no official dietary guidelines for MS. However, research suggests that making certain dietary changes may help slow the progression of the disease and manage MS symptoms to improve quality of life. Scientists need to do more research before making official recommendations about many dietary suggestions discussed above, but preliminary research is promising.
Foods to include in an MS-friendly diet include:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Grains
- Nuts and seeds
- Fish
- Meats
- Eggs
- Dairy products
- Fats
- Probiotic-rich foods
- Water and herbal teas
- Fresh herbs and spices