Can Multiple Sclerosis Be Cured By Diet?

Till date, there is no such evidence which suggests that multiple sclerosis can be treated by diet alone. No such studies have reflected a connection between diet and multiple sclerosis.

Few studies in the past emphasized the importance of few micronutrients which might enhance recovery in patient of multiple sclerosis, but as there are no shreds of evidence, these cannot be inculcated in one’s diet. This type of research comes under evidence-based studies. An evidence-based study is really an important aspect of the research field as according to that treatment plans are made. When there is no evidence of any medication or when no trials come out to be positive then those drugs or those therapies are not used in clinical practice. ⁽¹⁾

Like in a case of multiple sclerosis though not much relation can be found between disease and diet till date, according to few evidence-based studies it is found out that the vitamin D has an important role as it regulates cell growth and differentiation. Vitamin D is known for its special character that it increases the effectiveness of a drug named interferon beta. It also reduces disease progression. Still, there is no confirmation about the role of vitamin D in a patient of multiple sclerosis. Vitamin D can be prescribed to the patient of multiple sclerosis as few case studies suggest positive finding. Plus Vitamin D possesses no side effects which may harm the body. ⁽²⁾

Apart from vitamin D, there is a recent study which states that biotin should be used as a medication in a patient of multiple sclerosis. Few pharmaceutical companies have started using biotin in their medication program. Biotin which is usually known as vitamin H is given in patient with primary and secondary multiple sclerosis. This is used to reduce the rate of relapse as well. Biotin is obtained from food and usually, it is recommended to add products rich in biotin in one’s diet so as to improve the health status of a patient. One can even opt for multivitamin which includes all vitamin B complex medications.

As there is no evidence that diet helps in remission but still a few things which should be taken care of by the patient are as follows-

It is observed that skipping meals can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis hence it advised to take meals on time.

Anything in excess like the use of a high-fat diet can precipitate the attack of multiple sclerosis. So patient of multiple sclerosis is advised to consume a diet rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acid is considered highly protective in a patient of multiple sclerosis.

Alcohol which does nothing but empties calories of the body should be strictly prohibited in a patient of multiple sclerosis as these worsen the condition, increase the risk of relapse and have a negative effect on the immune system.

The balanced diet is what is needed in a patient of multiple sclerosis. Diet should contain an adequate amount of protein, low amount of fat and carbohydrate intake should depend on the type of work patient do. If he is having a sedentary lifestyle then requirement should be adjusted accordingly.

Patient of multiple sclerosis should not gain much weight as he or she might start facing problems like joint pain, cardiovascular problems, and respiratory insufficiency.

Involvement of respiratory muscles may also occur. Weight should be maintained as the sensory nervous system is compromised in a patient of multiple sclerosis. The autonomic system is even involved in a patient of multiple sclerosis which may lead to injury to the foot.

List of food which is highly recommended in a patient of multiple sclerosis-

Beans, lentil, soy, and nuts.
Whole grain products.
Skinless chicken, lean meat.
Food rich in omega-3 fatty acids which include fish (salmon, tuna, sardines)
Saturated fat is preferred over unsaturated fat.
Avocado is even found to be helpful.
Ginger and turmeric are two ingredients which should be used while preparing food.
Plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables should be consumed in a patient of multiple sclerosis.
Whole grain food preparations are preferred.

Hence though there is no direct relation between diet and multiple sclerosis still, there exist many indirect relations on account of which this food should be a part of the diet in a patient of multiple sclerosis.

References

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Can Multiple Sclerosis Be Cured By Diet?