Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis is a neurological disease characterised by multiple areas of inflammation and demyelination of the brain, spinal cord and optic nerve. This means that the myelin sheath which covers and protects the nerves slowly become destroyed while the axons of the nerves remain intact. An analogy of this is to imagine stripping the plastic insulation from a strip of copper wire and exposing the core. Oedema and inflammation are initial reactions to this deterioration which results in hardening or sclerosis occurring. The course of the disease can either be relapsing and remitting.

SYMPTOMS OF MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

The symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are not always the same from person to person. It is a progressive disease which affects the central nervous system and some of the symptoms experienced are:

  • absence of abdominal reflexes
  • demyelination of the optic nerve (optic neuritis), pain in the eyeball, loss of vision, diplopia (double vision)
  • disturbance of the sensory nerves (especially of the feet), loss of feeling, numbness, spasms
  • fatigue
  • loss of balance or vertigo
  • speech impairment may occur as the disease progresses
  • pain and muscular weakness
  • intolerance to temperature extremes/ changes

DIET TIPS FOR MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

Diet plays a crucial role in reducing the progression of the disease.

  • Raw foods
  • Avoiding acidic foods such as processed grains and flours and refined sugar and others indicated on the attached list
  • Increase oily foods in your diet – raw unheated olive oil, flaxseed oil, nuts, fish and avocados
  • Reduce inflammation within the body by alkalising the blood. Foods which are alkaline are sprouts, fish, miso soup, millet, vegetable broths and juices, water, lemon juice and green barley powder. Reduce inflammation causing/ heating foods such as wheat, sugar, dairy, alcohol, soft drinks, preservatives, processed and refined foods and red meat
  • Increase water intake, include lemon juice and vegetable juices into your daily routine
  • Increase the consumption of soy lecithin which contains phosphotidyl serine, a nutrient that improves myelination
  • Avoid all cola, tea, coffee, alcohol and cocoa
  • Reduce saturated fat intake by avoiding all deep fried fatty foods and reducing animal protein

LIFESTYLE FACTORS FOR MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

  • Consider making an appointment with a Naturopath or body care therapist (acupuncture, massage, postural alignment, craniosacral balancing) who may help to provide relief to pain and properly reduce the underlying problem
  • Take regular epsom salt baths to help the nerves and muscles to let go
  • Incorporate a regular and gentle stretching routine (yoga and swimming) into your life so the muslces and nerves learn to release built up tension. Yoga practices are helpful to loosen tight muscles and re-balance postural problems
  • Take time out for meditation and learning a breathing practice is also recommended to calm the spirit, switch the brain off and relax
  • Manage stress and learn relaxation techniques to help keep yourself calm and free of worries
  • Check for copper and mercury poisoning and also check for food sensitivities or allergies
  • Consider vitamin B injections to support nervous system function. Vitamin B12 supplementation may help to improve nerve health and reduce inflammation

NATURAL REMEDIES FOR MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS

  • Co Enzyme Q10 – antioxidant, reduces muscular dystrophy, improves oxygenation of the muscles
  • B Vitamins – nerve regeneration
  • Vitamin D – improves muscle action, regulates autoimmune conditions, stimulates immune function
  • Antioxidants – Selenium, Vitamin E, Zinc – to protect the myelin sheath from further degeneration
  • Magnesium – the recommended dosage is 800mg of elemental Magnesium daily to assist with muscle regeneration
  • Lecithin, Biotin, Lipoic acid – are nutrients that are concentrated in the myelin sheath of the nerve fibers, taking these supplements will have an antioxidant effect while protecting the fibres themselves
  • Fish oil – due to its antiinflammatory effect to protect the myelin sheaths from further inflammatory damage
  • The essential oils of marjoram, lavender, basil, peppermint, chamomile or rosemary diluted in a base oil of wheatgerm or sweet almond oil and used to massage any areas affected by muscular weakness
  • Ensure adequate water intake and consider taking an electrolyte supplement containing Magnesium, Calcium and Potassium which help to feed the nerves and muscles these help the muscles to replenish
  • Other herbs which may be of assistance to relieve nervous system tension are Chamomile, Vervain, Magnolia, Sacred Basil, Hops, Rosemary, Lavender, Ginger, Skullcap, Kava, Lemon Balm, Damiana, Passionflower, Oats and Withania