Dietary advice for the Multiple Sclerosis sufferer

There is much scientific evidence indicating that an appropriate nutritional balance and diet have a positive role in MS. Studies looking at the area of the world where MS occurs have shown that its incidence is closely correlated to the consumption of saturated fats. These are present in full fat dairy products, meat and confectionery. The brain and nervous system are composed of approximately 60% fat, a large proportion of which is derived from the essential fatty acids. Investigations have shown that the levels of essential fatty acids in the blood have tended to be low in some people with long-standing MS. Find out what foods and supplement can keep you healthy - and what to avoid.

One of the essential fatty acids is linoleic acid which is found in polyunsaturated oils such as sunflower and safflower. It has been demonstrated that patients given unsaturated fats can experience a reduced number and severity of relapses and Professor R.L.Swank in the USA has been advising MS people to adhere to a low-fat diet for over 30 years. His findings of reduced relapses and slowing of the disease progression compare favourably with the natural history of patients on a normal diet. In the diet recommended by the MS National Therapy Centres, the consumption of essential fatty acids is increased and that of saturated fats decreased. This nutritional programme also includes increased consumption of vitamins, minerals, trace elements and fibre; all important for general health. A three-year study on this diet indicated a reduced frequency and duration of relapses plus no significant deterioration in patient’s condition.