Foods to Eat and Avoid for Multiple Sclerosis
It is vital to follow dietary tips for multiple sclerosis as that could help regulate its symptoms. Diet is responsible for cardiovascular and overall health. A balanced diet influences MS symptoms and can have a significant effect on one. There are foods you should avoid and include in your diet to combat MS. Read on to know effective dietary tips for multiple sclerosis.
Foods to avoid in your diet
1. Saturated fats
They can be found in animal products like red meat and full-fat dairy. There are saturated fats in coconut and palm oil as well. These fats increase your LDL cholesterol that can lead to atherosclerosis, cardiovascular problems, and or hypertension.
2. Processed foods
They contain various additives to increase the durability and freshness of food items. However, using additives damages your intestinal mucosa and weakens your immune system. Repeated consumption of processed foods can change the tight junction permeability of the intestine and can escalate into autoimmune diseases.
3. Sodium
Excessive consumption of sodium can cause MS. It leads to increased blood pressure, resulting in relapse and the occurrence of new lesions. For patients with MS, consuming excessive sodium can lead to reduced life expectancy.
Foods to include in your diet
1. Probiotics
It is vital to include probiotics in your diet as it will keep your gut protected and strengthen your immune system. Probiotics are found in fermented food items such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut.
2. Fiber
Fiber is found in plant-based foods such as whole grain, nuts and seeds, and brown rice. Consumption of fiber-based items nourishes gut bacteria, regulates bowel movements, and maintains blood pressure by regulating your cholesterol levels.
3. Fruits and vegetables
They are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals. Fruits such as cherries, oranges, and strawberries and vegetables such as spinach, tomatoes, and kale reduce inflammation. Consumption of these items reduces disability and other severe symptoms among people with MS.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric can impact cells and cause a reduction in the severity of multiple sclerosis. Turmeric reduces inflammation due to this disease.
5. Avocados
Avocados are replete with antioxidants and monounsaturated fat, helping reduce inflammation. Anti-inflammatory nutrients in avocados are powerful to offset unhealthy food consumption.
6. Flaxseeds
It is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids as it contains phytochemicals known as lignans that have anti-inflammatory effects. Consuming flax seeds for a significant period can result in lower blood pressure that reduces the effects of MS.
7. Olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil contains phenols that combat inflammation. Consumption of olive oil improves the functioning of blood vessels and reduces two inflammatory markers.
8. Walnuts
It is another source for omega-3 fatty acids as walnuts include antioxidants, magnesium, and fiber that help in regulating inflammation. The levels of two blood markers involved in inflammatory response decrease after consumption of walnuts.