Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by a deterioration of the protective fatty sheath surrounding the nerve fibers of the brain and spinal cord. As the messages between the brain and other parts of body become slowed or blocked, MS symptoms of weakness, tingling, numbness, loss of balance, vision impairment, paralysis, and bladder or bowel problems may occur.
Other common MS symptoms include fatigue, depression, muscle spasms, sensitivity to heat, and changes in thinking or perception. Researchers have yet to find a cause for MS and, likewise, no specific diet has been scientifically proven to effectively reduce symptoms.
The Case for a Gluten-Free Diet
Despite the lack of definitive scientific research, some individuals have reported great results in reducing or eliminating the symptoms of MS through dietary changes. British playwright Roger MacDougall claims to have significantly reduced his MS symptoms by going on a gluten and casein free diet. His 1980 pamphlet My Fight Against Multiple Sclerosis is available online.
Having read about MacDougall’s success, Dr. Norman A. Matheson also reported success with a diet free of gluten and casein. A letter describing his success was published in the Oct. 5, 1974, medical journal Lancet. Further support of eating a gluten-free diet comes from studies showing that Canada, Scotland, and Western Ireland have the highest incidence of MS—countries which happen to use the highest gluten-containing types of hard wheat—and that the lowest incidence of MS is found in countries that eat predominantly millet or rice, including China, Japan, and Africa. That said, it makes sense to try a gluten-free diet. Research has shown that gluten intolerance can lower the absorption of minerals, including magnesium.
Magnesium and MS
MS symptoms can include magnesium deficiency, weakness, muscle spasms, and an inability to control the bladder. Magnesium helps in the production and transport of energy, the contraction and relaxation of muscles, and in the synthesis of protein. It also assists in the functioning of certain body enzymes. Magnesium-rich foods include spinach and other green vegetables, halibut, black beans, pumpkin and squash seeds, scallops and peanuts and whole unrefined grains.
Probiotics and MS
To potentially reduce bladder infections caused by bacteria and to cut down in intestinal gas, add probiotics to your diet. Good food sources of probiotics include yogurt, buttermilk, kefir, tempeh, miso, and sauerkraut.
Vitamin D and MS
Some research points to the possibility that people with MS might be deficient in vitamin D. The body naturally makes vitamin D from sunlight. Besides getting outside on sunny days, add salmon, mackerel, sardines, and tuna to your diet. Oily fish are among the few food sources naturally rich in vitamin D. Fortified milk, orange juice, and cereals can provide additional sources of this essential vitamin.
General Guidelines for an MS Diet
To support your body through the unpredictable nature of MS, eat a nutritionally balanced diet consisting of fresh vegetables, eggs, whole grains, fruits, seeds, raw nuts, and cold-pressed vegetable oils such as olive, canola, coconut, and walnut. Try to avoid processed foods, including hydrogenated oil (margarine and vegetable shortening).
Focus on eating a variety of foods from each food group and try to eat meals at the same time each day. Eliminate white bread and other refined-grain products and instead chose whole grains which provide fiber and other important nutrients, including selenium, potassium and magnesium. Brown rice, bulgur, quinoa, buckwheat, millet, quinoa, amaranth, and wild rice are all good options. Limit your intake of caffeine, sugar, salt, and alcohol and drink plenty of water, which will keep you hydrated and help eliminate toxins.
Summary
Limited studies have shown that avoiding some foods and eating more of others might help minimize the exacerbations and symptoms of MS. Before making any major changes to your diet, consult with your doctor and get advice from a dietrician experienced with MS.
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