How to Protect the Myelin Sheath

Myelin is a protective coating around all nerve cells. Myelin acts like a thin sheath around the axons of nerve cells, insulating electrical impulses. Without myelin, the human nervous system could not function properly. As we age, our myelin sheath becomes weaker. Some conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, are the result of rapid degeneration of myelin across the human body. Heredity aside, there are lifestyle choices you can make over your lifetime that protect the myelin sheath well into your twilight years.

Instructions

• 1

  Look back at your family history and see if heredity degeneration of myelin is in your family. Myelin degenerative conditions are known as demyelinating diseases, and include conditions like multiple sclerosis, Devic disease and acute disseminated encephalomyelitis.

• 2

  Stay physically fit. The connections between your muscles and nerves will be protected by consistent physical exercise. Eating right and exercising daily will help the central nervous system maintain its connection with your body tissue.

• 3

  Talk to your doctor about your risk. If your doctor suspects myelin degradation is possible, she may prescribe for you an FDA-approved medication for treating medical conditions like multiple sclerosis.

• 4

  Begin a multivitamin regiment. Consult with your doctor about the right amount of multivitamins needed to treat myelin sheaths. Large doses of multivitamins have been known to help the central nervous system and protect myelin sheaths.