MS is a complex disease that impacts the brain and spinal cord.
While the exact cause is unknown, experts believe the body’s immune system abnormally attacks the central nervous system causing damage to the myelin. This disrupts communication to and from the brain, according to the
Common MS symptoms include memory problems, weakness, vision problems, fatigue, pain, numbness, tingling, walking difficulties, and mood changes that generally become more severe over time.
But a healthy lifestyle combined with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) may help reduce symptoms and slow disease progression for some people with MS.
There are four basic disease courses of MS:
- clinically isolated syndrome (CIS)
- relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS)
- secondary progressive MS (SPMS)
- primary progressive MS (PPMS)
How the disease progresses is dependent on the course.
People with RRMS generally have relapses with periods of remission in between. When RRMS progresses or gets worse, you may develop SPMS, which is more aggressive and features a progressive worsening of neurologic function over time.
About 15 percent of people with MS will be diagnosed with PPMS, which features a slow and steady disease progression with no remission periods.
Although lifestyle changes alone won’t stop disease progression, they may help reduce symptoms, lower the number of relapses, and improve overall health for some people.
With that in mind, here are six practical tips that you can incorporate into your life to help slow the progression of MS.
1. Quitting smoking
If there’s one change you can make that will have the most impact on MS, it’s ditching the cigarette habit. Cigarette smoking is a modifiable risk factor that contributes to MS disease progression.
It’s also a habit that many people don’t associate with an increase in disability and the development of disease progression. In fact, a
This shows a need for healthcare professionals to closely monitor lifestyle habits such as smoking and provide treatment options for people wanting to quit.
According to a summary published by the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, people who smoke may progress to SPMS at a faster rate than nonsmokers. People with MS who smoke may not get the full effect of DMTs.
The good news, though, is smoking cessation can delay the time it takes to transition to SPMS. Plus, quitting smoking can positively affect MS symptoms, the number of relapses, level of disability, and motor strength and cognition.
If you’re interested in smoking cessation programs, talk with your doctor or check out the resources at SmokeFree.gov.
2. Reducing alcohol consumption
The occasional drink or two may not wreak havoc on your system. But too much alcohol could impair balance and coordination, at least temporarily, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Alcohol can also interfere with certain medications due to the effect it has on the central nervous system. Because of this, your doctor may recommend lowering your alcohol intake.
3. Incorporating moderate exercise
Moderate exercise can help improve a range of MS symptoms, including balance, fatigue, mobility issues, and pain. The key to physical activity, though, is finding the right exercise at an intensity that works for your fitness level and ability.
In general, the recommended exercise guidelines for people with MS include at least 150 minutes per week of exercise or at least 150 minutes per week of lifestyle physical activity.
The focus should be on gradual progress based on your abilities, preferences, and safety, according to a
The National Multiple Sclerosis Society recommends water workouts for stretching tight muscles and improving flexibility but says the pool temperature shouldn’t exceed 84°F (29°C).
If possible, consider working with a physical or occupational therapist experienced in MS who can establish a personalized program and monitor activity, especially if physical mobility is limited. Issues related to balance and mobility need close supervision.
Make sure to talk with your doctor or treatment team before beginning any new exercise program.
4. Making dietary changes
A balanced, healthy diet is essential for overall health. While there isn’t one diet proven to slow MS progression, there are some foods to include and ones to avoid.
Foods high in antioxidants, fiber, calcium, vitamin D, and other vitamins and minerals are a great place to start, according to a
MS-friendly foods to include:
- fresh fruits and vegetables
- whole grains like rice, oats, and quinoa
- plant-based foods and grains
- fatty fish, including salmon and mackerel
- healthy fats found in flaxseed, olive oil, avocado oil
- eggs
- legumes, nuts, and seeds
- low sugar, low fat yogurt
Foods to minimize or avoid:
- saturated and animal fats
- trans fats
- processed red meat
- highly processed foods and ready-made meals
- fried foods like chips and french fries
- foods high in sugar
- foods high in sodium
- sugar sweetened drinks such as sodas
Anecdotally, some people in the MS community are finding relief from symptoms by following specific diet plans like paleo, Wahls Protocol, Swank diet, and going gluten-free.