NUTRITION & MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Fatigue: Eating balanced meals with lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats may support energy.

Constipation: Consuming plenty of fiber from foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains is important for bowel regularity.
Hydration is also key.

Dysphagia (swallowing difficulty): Modified diets can support adequate food intake and safe swallowing.

Nutrition influences your risk for other chronic diseases (comorbidities), such as obesity, diabetes, and
cardiovascular disease.

Obesity is associated with inflammation and may
worsen MS symptoms or progression.

Cardiovascular (heart and blood vessel) risk
factors, such as high blood pressure and high cholesterol, are associated with greater disability

Diet affects the amount and types of bacteria in the gut. These bacteria play a role in immune function. Research is limited, but a balanced gut microbiome may be important in
the management of MS. Dietary components, like vitamins, minerals, fatty acids, amino acids, and antioxidants are important for overall health and immunity.

A gluten-free diet eliminates a protein called gluten. Gluten is found in wheat, barley, rye, triticale, and products derived from these cereals. A limited number of studies show that a gluten-free diet could reduce fatigue in MS. A gluten-free diet should be followed by people with a gluten allergy (Celiac disease). For those without a gluten allergy, following this diet may lead to nutritional deficiencies and worsening of gastrointestinal symptoms, like constipation.

A ketogenic diet is a high fat, moderate protein, and low carbohydrate eating
pattern. Some studies show improvements in quality of life, fatigue, and
depression. However, following a ketogenic diet can lead to negative side
effects, including vitamin deficiencies, weight loss, and gastrointestinal upset

The McDougall diet restricts fat, oils, and animal products. It emphasizes starchy plant-based foods, fruits, and vegetables. One study showed people following the McDougall diet reported improved fatigue levels, but this benefit was thought to be due to observed weight loss.

The Wahls diet is a modified paleolithic diet that includes nine daily servings of fruits and vegetables. It eliminates gluten, dairy, and eggs. It includes a
moderate amount of meat and limits starchy foods. Some studies show improvements in fatigue and quality of life in people with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). However, use caution as this diet is restrictive.

The Swank diet limits saturated fat
and emphasizes whole grains,
fruits, vegetables, lean fish, and
fish oil supplements. Some studies
show that following the Swank diet
could improve fatigue and quality of
life in people with RRMS.

The Mediterranean diet emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, beans, nuts, seeds, olive oil, and moderate amounts of fish and
dairy. It limits red meats, sugar, and saturated fats. Individual diet components suggest possible benefits in MS symptom management, although research is ongoing.