Following a good diet is important for everyone and that includes people with MS.
For many years now, researchers have noticed an association between the occurrence of MS and the dietary habits of populations. It is recognised that the disease occurs more frequently in populaces where animals and animal products are consumed. Fish, however, seems to have a protective effect.
Biochemical studies lead researchers to suggest that all the ‘messenger substances’ responsible for an erroneous immune reaction in MS are formed from the multiple unsaturated fatty acid, arachidonic acid. This substance promotes inflammation and is found mainly in animal foodstuffs such as meat, egg yolk, milk fat or butter.
Vegetable foods, however, do not contain this substance. Vegetable oils such as gamma linoleic acid and even fish oils can inhibit the formation of inflammatory agents.
Accordingly, one dietary aim in living with MS should be to reduce the amount of arachidonic acid in the body (through increasing vegetables in your diet) and to normalise the excessive formation of inflammatory substances, for example by consuming fish oils.
Some suggestions about dietary routines are shown below. However, it should be noted that these are general considerations and that each individual will have unique requirements. You should always consult with your physician as to what is appropriate for your health.
Dietary recommendations:
The calories consumed should be sufficient but not excessive. It is advisable to reach and maintain a ‘normal weight’;
- Protein consumption should be around 50-80g a day. It is advisable to obtain much of this from high-value vegetable protein, such as tofu, or in tasty protein combinations e.g. potatoes in their skins and whey, rice-milk, and muesli;
- There should be a considerable reduction in the consumption of industrially manufactured, hard, saturated fats and animal fats. Beware especially of hidden fats e.g. in chocolate, sweet foods, and ice cream;
- Take four to a maximum of ten teaspoons (20 to 50 g) of ‘good’ oil, that contains a large number of multiple unsaturated fatty acids e.g. soya oil, wheat germ oil, and linseed oil. These will provide a sufficient amount of multiple unsaturated, partly essential, fatty acids;
- The daily consumption of fish-oil supplements may have a favorable influence on MS; there is however no absolute proof of this. Nevertheless there is no doubt of the high value of fish meals from a dietary and physiological viewpoint; especially since sea fishes contain a high proportion of multiple unsaturated fatty acids and high-quality protein;
- The proportion of sugar in carbohydrates consumed should be low. Choose unrefined wheat products, such as wholewheat flour and meal, wholemeal bread, natural rice, and oats;
- Increase the fibre content of your food by eating more fruit, vegetables and salads.
- Eventually reduce the proportion of animal foods to two or three times a week, and restrict yourself to the leanest possible meat, or replace it with fish. It is best to avoid sausages since most varieties contain a large amount of hidden fat; and
- Ensure that your food is high-quality and natural, wherever possible. Processed foods should be consumed only occasionally.
In the case of osteoporosis or increased risk (inactivity, cortisone therapy) you are well advised to take vitamin D and supplementary potassium. Regular physical movement also reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
MS and addictive substances
There is no evidence to date to suggest that alcohol has a negative effect on the long-term course of MS. Smoking is known to confer a higher susceptibility and increased risk of progression of multiple sclerosis.
Moreover, there is adequate proof of the general health risks posed by both alcohol and tobacco, although the occasional glass of wine or beer with a meal or with friends need not be ruled out. Individuals on medication must ask their doctor’s advice before drinking alcohol, which, in some cases, can increase fatigue and exacerbate balance disorders, and bladder problems. It is best to discuss all of these issues with a doctor or medical adviser.
