Multiple Sclerosis: Foods to Avoid

Multiple Sclerosis: Foods to Avoid

When a person is suffering from multiple sclerosis, the immune system adversely affects the central nervous system, disrupting the link that connects the brain to the various parts of the body. Following a healthy diet and staying away from food items that can further deteriorate the central nervous system helps in dealing with this condition.

Here is a list of foods to avoid for those suffering from multiple sclerosis:

Saturated fats
Saturated fats originate from animal-based products like red meat or dairy products. One also finds them in food items that are made of coconut oil or palm oil. Saturated fats increase the amount of bad cholesterol in the body. That, in turn, makes the body more susceptible to heart-related diseases and stroke. Several reports have indicated the fact that people who have multiple sclerosis are at a higher risk of suffering from heart problems.

Trans fats
Trans fats are as harmful as saturated fats for multiple sclerosis patients. Trans fat is found in cookies, pies, and other food items that are prepared in a bakery. These are some of the foods to avoid when you have multiple sclerosis. When you buy such a food product, always keep an eye on the label. In the ingredient section, if there is a mention of “partially hydrogenated oils,” you know that it has a presence of trans fats in it. Trans fats have also been found to be responsible for increasing the rate of inflammation in the blood vessels and contributing to cardiovascular problems. 

Cow’s milk
The presence of saturated fat in cow’s milk makes it very harmful for multiple sclerosis patients. Apart from that, there are certain kinds of proteins in the milk that can create harmful reactions in some people who are suffering from this condition. Once you decide not to let cow’s milk be a part of your diet, you must have a good look at your diet plan and ensure that you are consuming food items that are rich in calcium and vitamin D.

Sugar
Putting on extra kilos can be dangerous for multiple sclerosis patients. Performing daily activities become a little difficult in such situations. Sugar is one of the major contributors when it comes to increasing fat content in the body. Sugary food items must be avoided if a person has multiple sclerosis. 

Refined carbs
Consuming food items that have processed or refined carbohydrates leads to an unhealthy increase in the blood sugar level and the chances of a person suffering from heart problems. Multiple sclerosis patients should stay away from food products like white bread and white rice. Switching to healthier alternatives will be beneficial for their overall health.