Multiple sclerosis is a condition in which one’s immune system attacks the central nervous system. It damages nerve fibers, thereby affecting the spinal cord, brain, and optic nerves. There’s no cure for multiple sclerosis, presently. But, a diet plan may help manage symptoms like fatigue, pain, and dizziness. Eating healthy foods will also boost the immune system and improve overall health. Let’s look at five dietary tips for those with multiple sclerosis.
Eat fatty fish
Fatty fish has omega 3 fatty acids, which can be beneficial for multiple sclerosis. Omega 3 fatty acids soothe inflammation, keep the heart healthy, and lower blood pressure. So, include fatty fish like sardines, mackerel and salmon in a diet plan to manage multiple sclerosis. Also, those who have this condition may have a deficiency of vitamin D. Fatty fish have vitamin D too. It regulates the body’s absorption of calcium and improves the function of the immune system.
Have high-fiber food
High-fiber foods include whole-grain bread, oatmeal, beans, dried fruits, and flaxseeds. Eating high-fiber food can help with one specific health problem associated with multiple sclerosis: constipation. It occurs when one’s pelvic floor muscles have reduced functioning optimally. High-fiber food can manage and also prevent constipation. Consume around 30 grams of fiber daily.
Increase probiotics intake
In multiple sclerosis, one’s gut may produce a lot of inflammatory bacteria. But, probiotics may improve this condition. Probiotics, like yoghurt, boost healthy bacteria in the gut, which also strengthens one’s immune system. This can improve multiple sclerosis symptoms. Some foods also nourish the probiotic bacteria in the body. These are called prebiotics, and they include asparagus, leeks, and garlic. Eating foods with probiotics, along with prebiotics, can boost one’s immunity. Probiotics may also reduce trauma in one’s spinal cord; however, large scale research is still needed to prove it.
Add healthy oils to foods
Omega-3 fatty acids are present in few oils, too, and are good for those with multiple sclerosis. It is present in flaxseed, linseed oil, and camelina oil. Other oils like olive oil and rapeseed oil have unsaturated fats that won’t lead to unhealthy weight gain. Controlling one’s weight is essential as an increase in weight can worsen the condition of multiple sclerosis. So, swap the unhealthy saturated oils in the kitchen with heart-healthy oils and add them to the diet.
Eat vegetables
Vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Many of them also have antioxidants that reduce inflammation in the body. Broccoli, especially, is a good source of fiber. It has iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which can boost one’s immunity system. Tomatoes, spinach, and kale also have anti-inflammatory properties. Leafy greens can also help stabilize blood sugar. All of these factors play an important role in managing multiple sclerosis.
