Effectiveness of various diet patterns among patients with multiple sclerosis

Postep Psychiatr Neurol. 2023 Mar;32(1):49-58. doi: 10.5114/ppn.2023.127246. Epub 2023 May 8.

Abstract

Purpose: The main aim of the study was to compare the effectiveness of the dietary patterns studied in the context of multiple sclerosis (MS), including anti-inflammatory, Mediterranean diet (MD), Mediterranean-DASH intervention for neurodegenerative delay (MIND), intermittent fasting (IF), gluten-free and ketogenic diets. In addition, another aim was to verify or otherwise the efficacy of other alternative dietary models, which include the Paleo diet, the Wahls diet, the McDougall diet and the Swank diet. Whether and to what extent the use of different dietary regimens can affect the course and reduction of individual MS symptoms was also examined. The advantages and disadvantages of selected diets and dietary patterns in the context of MS are discussed.

Views: Autoimmune diseases are estimated to affect more than 3% of the world's people, the majority of whom are of working age. Therefore, delaying the first manifestation of the disease, reducing the number of relapses and alleviating symptoms are particularly welcome developments. In addition to finding effective pharmacotherapy, high hopes for patients lie in nutritional prevention and diet therapy. For years the medical literature has discussed supporting the treatment of diseases caused by an impairment of the body's immune system with the help of nutrition.

Conclusions: An appropriate and balanced diet can be extremely helpful in improving the condition and well-being of patients with MS, and effectively support drug therapy.

Keywords: MS; dietary patterns; multiple sclerosis; nutrition.

Publication types

  • Review