An anti-inflammatory approach to the dietary management of multiple sclerosis: a condensed review

  • Editorial Office
  • I L Labuschagne Stellenbosch University
  • R Blaauw Stellenbosch University
Keywords: Anti-inflammatory diet, diet, multiple sclerosis, nutrition, supplements, vitamin D

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic, inflammatory, neurodegenerative demyelinating disease of the central nervous system (CNS). Inflammation is increased by high-energy Western-style diets, typically high in salt, animal fat, red meat, sugar-sweetened drinks and fried food, and low in fibre, as well as lack of physical exercise. An anti-inflammatory dietary regimen, with or without administration of dietary supplements, supporting the general trend towards an amelioration of inflammatory status, should be considered.

Understanding the role of gut microbiota in health and disease can lay the foundation to treat chronic diseases by modifying the composition of gut microbiota through lifestyle choices, including dietary habits and possibly probiotic supplementation. Evidence from experimental, epidemiologic and clinical studies supports the potential association between poor vitamin D status and the risk of developing MS, as well as an adverse disease course. Correcting vitamin D status seems plausible in patients with MS.

(Full text available online at www.medpharm.tandfonline.com/ojcn)

South Afr J Clin Nutr 2018; DOI: 10.1080/16070658.2018.1465652

Author Biographies

I L Labuschagne, Stellenbosch University
Division of Human Nutrition, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
R Blaauw, Stellenbosch University
Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
Published
2018-08-22
How to Cite
Office, E., Labuschagne, I., & Blaauw, R. (2018). An anti-inflammatory approach to the dietary management of multiple sclerosis: a condensed review. South African Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 31(3), 8-14. Retrieved from http://www.sajcn.co.za/index.php/SAJCN/article/view/1350
Section
CPD Articles