by Ola Mazurkiewicz Dip NT, mNTOI
WHAT IS MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic condition affecting the central nervous system. MS is caused by damage to the myelin sheath, covering the nerve cells, which is causing the nerve signals slow down or stop the – demyelinating disease.
Demyelination and the nerve damage is caused by inflammation which occurs when the body’s own immune cells attack the nervous system. This damage can happen anywhere in the brain or spinal cord.
This autoimmune reaction can be triggered by various factors, including viruses, liver damage or inadequate blood supply, which could also have many causes.
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of MS stem from the breakdown of communication between the brain and the nerves (NIH, 2013).
There are many symptoms of multiple sclerosis, which tend to become more severe as the disease progresses. MS symptoms range from mild and intermittent to severe and permanently debilitating (NINDS, 2012).
The most common symptoms include:
•Blurred or double vision
•Trouble thinking
•Lack of coordination
•Loss of balance
•Numbness
•Tingling
•Weakness in an arm or leg
For everyone, MS symptoms can display differently.
There is currently no cure for MS, but many pharmaceutical and alternative treatments are available. The natural treatments for multiple sclerosis are effective and in many instances, the condition can be reversed or greatly improved. Before using any herbs, supplements, or alternative or complementary therapies to treat MS, discuss the benefits and risks with a physician.
NATURAL TREATMENT FOR MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS
There are many things that can be done to prevent MS, improve its symptoms or even reverse it.
Get tested for food sensitivities
The food allergies and sensitivities create a widespread inflammation throughout your body, which makes the MS symptoms worse.
Check your vitamin levels and heavy metal levels
Nutrients deficiency and heavy metal toxicity can mimic many multiple sclerosis symptoms. Get a blood test to check those.
Avoid any type of soda
Soda contains either sugar, which is highly inflammatory, or artificial sweetener, which is damaging the nerve cells. Additionally, the carbonation process acts in the body as a waste product that must be detoxified, therefore putting an extra burden on the body.
Stop using the microwave
Irradiated food isn’t healthy and it may damage the nervous connection.
Eat organic and non-GMO foods
Reduce your exposure to chemicals and toxins by avoiding any foods that are processed. Also, avoid GMOs. GMO stands for genetically modified organism and they are not natural for our body and may be worsening the autoimmune reaction.
Avoid Gluten
People with MS generally have a gluten intolerance and gluten can make they symptoms worse.
Stay away from Sugar and Alcohol
Sugar – Lowers the immune response and causes systemic inflammation.
Alcohol – Increases inflammation and can create a toxic environment.
Avoid aspartame and MSG
Aspartame and MSG can be found in al kinds of convenience foods and processed foods. Aspartame wasn’t made for human consumption, and toxicity from aspartame and MSG mimic many MS symptoms.
Add veggies to your diet
Vegetables offer a wide range of phytonutrients that can befit MS patients. Especially beneficial are green veg— spinach, kale, cucumbers, broccoli and cabbage.
Use Unprocessed foods
Choose whole, organic, unprocessed foods as often as possible. Aim for a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables in different colours to provide antioxidants that can help prevent free radical damage. Freash meat, polutry and fish for a good range of essentail aminoacids.
Implement Healthy Fats
Coconut oil contains large amounts of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFA) that support the brain and nervous system.
Omega-3 fats found in wild-caught fish can help reduce inflammation.
Eat Cabbage familly vegetable
Foods high in lecithin, like Cabbage, Cauliflower or Bean Sprouts may help strengthen the nerves.
Try massage and foam rolling
It will help to stimulate lymphatic flow and circulation, increase joint flexibility and can even help with muscle spasticity.
Daily Movement and Exercise
Move! Any type of physical activity can help to protect your muscles from becoming atrophied. Chose a physical activity that you enjoy to make sure you do it on a regular basis.
Sun exposure
Sunlight activates the anti-inflammatory genes in the body and it helps in prevention of inflammation-related illness. Also, studies are showing the nitrix oxide, produced in the body while exposed to sunlight, has a beneficial effect on conditions such as multiple sclerosis and atherosclerosis.
Stay positive
Humour and laughter strengthen your immune system, boosts your energy, and protects you from the damage of stress. It decreases stress hormone levels, decreases pain and improves your mood.
SUPPLEMENTS
Fish Oil
Fish oil can help reduce inflammation and promote better nerve functioning.
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10
Q10 is used for its potential ability to slow neurodegenerative diseases.
High-potency multi-vitamin
Provides basic nutrients needed for immune function.
Digestive enzymes
May help with digestion and reduce autoimmune reactions to foods.
Vitamin D3
Vitamin D helps modulate the immune system and support brain and nervous system.
Magnesium
Deficiencies in this mineral can cause weakness, fatigue, tingling, cramps, seizures, muscle contraction, numbness, and personality changes (ODS, 2009). Magnesium deficiencies may be associated with some of the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and a number of other chronic and progressive conditions
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 helps with the formation of nerves.