The Best Foods for MS Symptom Relief

Common symptoms of MS

Multiple Sclerosis is a medical disorder caused when damage occurs to the outer shell of nerve cells. The human immune system destroys the Myelin sheath in this condition. It is an outer cover protecting nerve cells.

Consequently, the brain has no way to communicate with the rest of the body. Eventually, this disruption will lead to permanent damage to the entire human body. The brain, optic nerves, and the spinal cord are the largest areas affected by this chronic disorder.

People between 20 to 40 years of age are more prone to MS in general. In particular, women have higher rates of developing multiple Sclerosis, according to statistics.

Studies haven't yet discovered the prominent causes of MS. However, the common factors that may trigger the beginning of this disorder vary in each individual.

Mainly, genetics, geographical environment, viruses like Epstein Barr and human herpesvirus-6, and smoking can trigger MS.

Likewise, treatment is yet to be studied for this condition, but having some specific foods can help with the disorder. Some of the prevalent symptoms observed in patients of Multiple Sclerosis are listed below:

● Muscle spasms, tremors, and tingling sensation

● Inability to control muscles

● Depression and mood swings

● Cognitive problems associated with poor focus and memory loss

● Impaired vision in one or both eyes

● Urinary bladder and bowel dysfunctions

● Fatigue and dizziness

● Sexual dysfunctions

● Speech impairment, etc

Role of Diet in dealing with different types of MS

MS may also cause numerous other health complications. Some of the observed ones are vertigo, paralysis, epileptic seizures, urinary tract infections, and more. These complications depend on how often the disorder relapses, i.e., the frequency of attacks.

This categorizes MS into 4 different types, each varying according to individual factors. The types are :

● Clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)

● Relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS)

● Secondary progressive MS (SPMS)

● Primary progressive MS (PPMS)

The symptoms differ in each individual and might be triggered by several factors. However, there are some ways to control the drawbacks of multiple Sclerosis. In particular, adopting a healthier lifestyle and exploring the best foods for MS can help lessen its effects. For instance, the intake of vitamin D and minerals helps fight fatigue and osteoporosis in patients with MS.

Similarly, a regular diet with low calories, reduced carbohydrates, and high anti-inflammatory foods supposedly helps prevent the frequency of attacks.

Additionally, experts believe that a nutrient diet plays a significant role in preventing and delaying the symptoms.

Best foods for MS to reduce it's Symptoms

Here's a well-formulated list of the best foods for Multiple Sclerosis.

Organically sourced fresh fruits and vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are effective and nutrition-rich food products. They are primary sources of fiber and antioxidants. So, fruits will aid you in the fight against inflammation and indigestion. Some fruits you can opt for are avocados, apples, black grapes, berries, kiwis, and bananas. You can also consume vegetables like spinach, tomatoes, and onions. These are filled with plentiful antioxidants. Also, Vitamin -D in some fruits and vegetables will help against osteoporosis and deal with fatigue associated with MS.

Whole grains

Our list would be incomplete without the addition of whole grains. High in unprocessed carbohydrates and fibers, they help effectively against MS. Some Whole grains like quinoa, oats, rice, and barley are recommended for patients with this condition. They help smooth bowels and prevent fatigue linked with MS. Additionally, they control sugar levels in the blood, keeping the body healthy.

Unsaturated fats

Unsaturated fats are good in healthy aspects of nutrients. The best foods that encompass unsaturated fats include flax seeds, fish, and hemp seeds. Not only are they healthy for you, but they also reduce the risk of contracting this condition. Similarly, unprocessed red meat is good for improving your cardiovascular system. This might, in turn, alleviate some symptoms of MS.

Lean protein

Muscle spasms, fatigue, and tremors are common in people with MS. To ease the pain, lean protein is another good food for MS. Examples of lean protein include fish, beans, soy, lentils, etc. When taking lean proteins, you can choose to skin red meat and instead opt for skinless chicken. Similarly, eggs are a good source of biotin and vitamin D, which help with MS conditions.

Turmeric and Ginger

Rich in anti-inflammatory components, turmeric and ginger are easily available foods to cure MS. Curcumin, found in turmeric, supposedly decreases the severity of MS. It encompasses anti-inflammatory and immune-improving properties.

Likewise, 10-gingerol and 6-shogaol are found in ginger roots. They help reduce neuroinflammation. Ginger is also a good source for improving memory losses linked with MS.

Fatty fish

Some fish containing omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D are considered the best foods to relieve MS symptoms. The sources of such fish include herring, sardines, trout fish, albacore tuna, salmon, etc. Rich in anti-inflammatory substances, they reduce the risk of MS relapses. In addition, fish oil consumption is equally significant in dealing with the symptoms of this medical disorder.

Some oils

You can opt for Coconut oil, flaxseed oil, avocado oil, and virgin olive oil to regulate MS symptoms. Rich with healthy fats, these oils contain phytochemicals that act as anti-inflammatory substances.

Olive oil is especially good for improving mood. It reduces oxidative stress via components called phenols.

Seeds and nuts

All nuts including Walnuts are an excellent source for food intake for MS patients. This is because they contain magnesium, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and other unsaturated fats that help with inflammation. Flaxseeds contain lignans, a component known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Final Words

You can ease some symptoms indirectly using the best foods for MS described in this article. You can also help protect yourself from medical emergencies with a Life Assure medical alert system. It is advised to counsel an experienced physician before proceeding with any dietary plans.

This is because the symptoms of this disorder differ from person to person and should be treated accordingly. However, with proper lifestyle, guidance, and dietary foods mentioned in this article, you can eliminate some of the drawbacks of MS.