Multiple sclerosis (MS) is one of the most commonly experienced neurological disorders. MS affects almost one million U.S. adults and over two million people worldwide. MS is two to three times more common among women than men.
In this article, the ways diet may affect MS are explained. Read on for a dietary guide to help you manage your MS symptoms.
RELATED: Multiple Sclerosis: What It Is & What It Is Not
What is MS?
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disorder that gradually destroys the protective coverings around your nerve fibers. These protective coverings are called myelin sheaths.
Over time, multiple sclerosis can permanently damage nerves, affecting the communication between the brain and body.
Symptoms of MS may include:
- Bladder and bowel dysfunction
- Fatigue
- Tingling and numbness
- Difficulty moving
- Impaired vision
- Learning and memory difficulties
MS is wildly complex, and the way the disease progresses may vary from person to person. Scientists are not sure what causes MS or how to cure it, but they know that immune, environmental, and genetic factors are involved.
Although diet cannot completely cure MS, some research suggests that making dietary changes may help people with MS better manage their symptoms, and in turn, improve their quality of life.
RELATED: Multiple Sclerosis: What You Should Eat and Never Dare Eat
How Can Diet Affect MS?
There are no official dietary guidelines for MS because no two people with MS experience the disease in the same way. However, scientists believe that nutrition may have an influence. MS is more prevalent in Western societies than in developing nations, which indicates that diet may play a key role.
These recommendations for people with MS aim to help manage symptoms and improve the overall quality of life. Diet may help with MS in multiple ways, including:
