|  | Conditions Treatments | Multiple Sclerosis

MS Diet & Exercise

According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS), there are approximately 400,000 people with multiple sclerosis (MS) in the United States, with more than 200 new cases diagnosed each week. There is no known cure for MS, but aerobic exercise and a carefully planned diet may reduce many of its challenging symptoms.

  1. What is MS?

    • Multiple sclerosis is a chronic and disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system---the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. The progress and severity of the disease is unpredictable, the NMSS says, and symptoms range from mild numbness to paralysis and blindness. Most patients are diagnosed between 20 and 50 years of age.

    MS Diet

    • An ideal diet for an MS sufferer is similar to what is considered a general healthy diet in many ways, with exception of specific foods to avoid. Foods that rank high on acceptability are chicken and turkey breasts, cooked without the skin, according to the England-based Multiple Sclerosis Resource Centre (MSRC). Fish is especially recommended with its many nutrients and anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids. Fruits and vegetables are encouraged. Having a glass of wine a day is okay if the grapes are organic, according to Dr. Ashton Embry, founder of Direct-MS, an institute devoted to researching the cause of and treatments for MS.

    Foods to Avoid

    • There are several foods that should be avoided by the MS patient, including gluten products, such as wheat and oats, and all legumes, meaning lentils, beans and peas. MS sufferers should also stay away from saturated, trans fats and foods filled with preservatives. Dairy products and soy products should also be left off the grocery list, as well as beer and chocolate. According to Dr. Embry, patients with MS who follow these suggestions have had less debilitating symptoms.

    Herbs and Supplements

    • Herbs and supplements also may ease or alleviate some of the uncomfortable symptoms of MS, according to the MSRC. Chamomile, for example, works as a nerve relaxant, while cramp bark relieves muscle cramps. Hawthorn berry is a stress reliever, licorice acts as an anti-inflammatory and elderflower helps with elimination. A laundry list of supplements is also recommended, with the "3 essentials" being vitamin D, calcium and magnesium. Before trying these or any other natural remedies for treating MS, check with your health provider to be sure they are right for you.

    Exercise

    • Aerobic exercise is an important contributor to the general health and well being of the MS patient, says the NMSS website. Among the benefits to a regular exercise routine are symptom reduction, increased physical strength, better digestion, and less fatigue and depression. The ideal exercise routine will vary, depending on the patient's strengths and weaknesses, and a doctor or physical therapist should be consulted first.

Multiple Sclerosis - Related Articles