The pros, cons, and points to consider before opting for a MS diet
Multiple Sclerosis is a severe condition of the central nervous system that primarily affects the nerve impulses. Nerve connections throughout the body carry signals from the brain to trigger a response or a body function. Multiple Sclerosis causes a deterioration of the nerve covering and disrupts these impulses.
Ideally, doctors will recommend an MS diet plan to manage the condition. A Multiple Sclerosis recovery diet, in particular, allows people to curb the symptoms with the help of proper nutrition. A recovery MS diet plan mainly focuses on eliminating five foods that trigger certain autoimmune disorders.
However, one must understand and consider the following points before starting an MS diet plan specifically designed for recovery.
The Pros of an MS diet
An MS diet plan includes healthy eating options and limits the consumption of fats and carbohydrates. The diet helps maintain optimum blood pressure and blood sugar levels by controlling one’s food intake. The diet also offers an alternative to a medicine-based recovery through natural nutrition and controlled eating. An MS diet plan also encourages people to make lifestyle changes. The diet will mainly consist of fruits, vegetables, foods that are rich in antioxidants, foods for enzymes, lean proteins in place of saturated fat meats, and also the occasional use of probiotics to aid digestion.
The cons of an MS diet
There is no specific research or scientific finding that states that Multiple Sclerosis can be cured completely with the diet. The diet simply prompts people to stop eating the five main trigger foods that can aggravate certain symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis. However, the diet restricts the use of some ingredients that are commonly used in packaged and processed foods, limiting one’s choices significantly. Also, the MS diet plan is difficult for vegetarians to follow due to the already limited choices they face when it comes to foods and beverages.
Whom should one consult with to draft a good MS diet Plan?
An MS diet plan is simple to follow but it is recommended to consult with a certified medical professional to plan and draft a viable diet.
Dietician
A dietician is qualified to assess and give proper guidance when it comes to food and nutrition. They have extensive knowledge of the subject and will draft a feasible MS diet plan that will help manage the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis. Often a dietician will recommend diet therapy to gradually acclimatize the body to a new regime.
Nutritionist
A nutritionist will not necessarily have a degree in health. They are consultants and anyone with good knowledge of diet and nutrition can become one. Nutritionists can also help plan a proper diet chart to supplement the needs of people who are suffering from Multiple Sclerosis.
Note that a diet will not be effective unless it is accompanied by an exercise regime. An MS recovery diet requires a good amount of physical activity. For people who have limited mobility due to an injury or any other condition, a trained physical therapist will recommend proper exercises with the diet.
References
https://www.mstrust.org.uk/life-ms/diet/healthy-eating
