Multiple Sclerosis

Question 1

Mechanism of MS

Answer 1

A gradual loss of myelin sheath that surrounds nerve cells (demyelination) due to an autoimmune response
Symptoms correspond to location of demyelinated nerves

Question 2

Key Symptoms of MS

Answer 2

Fatigue, weakness, numbness, locomotor difficulty, pain, loss of vision, blurred vision

Question 3

Dietary Causes of MS

Answer 3

PUFA: SFA radio - if high, MS is decreased
EFA deficiency, especially Omega 3
Food Allergies (dairy, gluten)
Malabsorption of and food allergies contribute to progression
Trans Fats - may replace DHA in myelin leading to decreased function, may be inflammatory in myelin
Saturated fats
Gluten may promote myelin attacking antibodies

Question 4

Nutrient Deficiencies Associated with MS

Answer 4

Vitamin D deficiency - increase risk of autoimmune reactions, shown to decrease immune-cell-mediated inflammation
EFA deficiency - decreased omega 3 family, potentially undamaged LA deficiency
B12 deficiency - errors of B12 metabolism known to cause demyelination
Ox stress - reduced capacity to address free radicals, especially reduced activity of glutathione peroxidase, important for protection of myelin

Question 5

Dietary Treatment of MS

Answer 5

Swank Diet
Paleo Diet
Omega 3 rich foods - cold water rich, nuts, seeds, dark leafy greens
Avoid Transfats
Avoid Gluten

Question 6

Nutrients for MS

Answer 6

Flax Seed Oil - helps mediate immune activity
GLA
DHA
Vitamin D
Vitamin E - antioxidant support (especially if now GPx)
Selenium (GPx)
Vitamin B12 - prevents demyelination
Pancreatic Enzymes - help reduce circulating immune complexes

Question 7

Other MS factors

Answer 7

viral infection
autoimmune reaction - circulating immune complexes
psychological stress - worsens symptoms
genetic predisposition