Nutrients to Manage Multiple Sclerosis

Nutrients to Manage Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a progressive neurological disease that can potentially disable the nervous system, including the brain. The condition is characterized by the scarring of nerve tissues due to the attack of the immune system on the myelin sheath of a neuron. This disease can cause permanent damage to the nervous system, resulting in the deterioration of the nerves. Some of the symptoms of this disease are tremors, numbness, lack of balance, and pain.

Apart from medication, several lifestyle changes for multiple sclerosis can help manage the condition effectively. Some patients have begun administering supplements to themselves for a positive effect on the symptoms, and it appears to work. However, some supplements may cause side effects, so it’s advisable to consult with a doctor before one starts taking any of those. The following are some of the nutrients to add to the daily diet to cope with multiple sclerosis:

  • Vitamin D
    Vitamin D provides a great helping hand to calcium when it comes to strengthening the bones. It can also act on the immune system to help ease inflammation. Although unproven, it is believed that vitamin D supplements can greatly improve the symptoms of multiple sclerosis and help ease pain and discomfort. One should take a blood test to assess the vitamin D levels in their body, and foods like fatty fish, orange juice, cheese, egg yolk, and soy milk should be added to the diet if they are deficient.
  • Biotin
    Biotin is a type of B vitamin that can help the body convert food into energy. It also protects the skin, hair, and nails. High doses of biotin have improved the symptoms in certain people, while there have also been cases where no improvements were shown.
  • Antioxidants
    Free radicals are harmful molecules in the body that damage cells and can worsen the symptoms of the condition. Antioxidants like vitamins A, C, E, and such help fight free radicals and the damage they cause. Antioxidants fire up the immune system, so they might not be that good a solution. One must consult a doctor before including these in their diet. Until proven to be safe, one should get their antioxidant intake from fruits and vegetables and avoid supplements.
  • Probiotics
    People with multiple sclerosis have more harmful bacteria in their bodies that worsen the symptoms of the condition, especially inflammation. Probiotics have good bacteria that can help restore this balance and also promote gut health. They help alleviate most physical and emotional symptoms that accompany multiple sclerosis. This makes adding yogurt and fermented foods like kefir, kimchi, and pickles to the diet a helpful lifestyle change for multiple sclerosis.
  • Stay hydrated
    One should drink water frequently to keep the body hydrated as a healthy intake of water can greatly benefit health. In this case, staying hydrated can alleviate symptoms and help one regulate their daily activities better. Another essential lifestyle change for managing multiple sclerosis is to avoid drinks that dehydrate the body, like soda and caffeinated beverages and drinks.