Essential Dietary Recommendations for Managing Multiple Sclerosis
This article offers key dietary guidelines for managing multiple sclerosis. It highlights foods to avoid, including trans and saturated fats, high-sodium foods, and refined grains, to help reduce inflammation and support overall health. Following these tips can aid MS patients in symptom management and improving quality of life.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks the central nervous system. Although no specific diet can cure MS, maintaining a nutritious diet may help alleviate symptoms and support overall well-being. Conversely, poor dietary choices can increase disease activity.
There are certain foods that individuals with MS should avoid to manage inflammation and disease progression. Here's a list of foods to steer clear of:
Trans fats
Avoid packaged baked goods like cookies, crackers, and pies that contain trans fats. Always check food labels for trans-fat content, as these fats promote inflammation within blood vessels and may exacerbate MS symptoms.
Saturated fats
Minimize intake of saturated fats found in red meats, full-fat dairy products, palm, and coconut oils. These fats can raise LDL cholesterol levels and increase cardiovascular risks, which are particularly problematic for MS patients.
Milk
Cow's milk contains saturated fats and proteins that might aggravate MS symptoms. Alternative calcium and protein sources should be included in the diet to compensate.
Sodium
Excess sodium intake has been linked to higher relapse rates and new lesion development in MS. Reduce or eliminate table salt and check food labels to manage sodium intake effectively. Too much sodium also raises blood pressure, increasing cardiovascular risk.
Refined grains
Foods like white rice, white bread, and processed breakfast cereals should be avoided. These contain refined carbs that boost blood sugar, promote weight gain, and can worsen fatigue—an often encountered MS symptom.
