Multiple sclerosis is a type of autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the central nervous system. The immune system attacks the brain, spinal cord, and other parts of the CNS by causing inflammation in the myelin sheath: a protective layer present on the neurons. There are several treatments options available to manage MS (multiple sclerosis) symptoms. Foods that can provide relief from the same are as follows.

1. Turmeric
Apart from adding color and flavor to the food, turmeric is also known for its medicinal properties. Turmeric is rich in curcumin, an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agent that can modulate cell signaling pathways, preventing autoimmune attacks, including multiple sclerosis. It can also modulate cell cycle regulatory proteins, cytokines, and enzymes associated with disorders like multiple sclerosis. However, it is essential to ensure that turmeric will not interact with ongoing medications to avoid other side effects.

2. Ginger
It is yet another food that is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger can be added to your daily cup of tea (ginger tea). MS causes demyelination of neurons and degeneration of axons resulting in inflammation in the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. Ginger contains 10-gingerol, an anti-inflammatory compound that regulates B cell-related immune responses, which can help manage multiple sclerosis symptoms. Compounds in ginger also interfere with signaling pathways, suppression of inflammasomes, and oxidative stress that helps provide relief from multiple sclerosis.

3. Vitamin D-rich foods
Foods such as fortified orange juice, mushrooms, salmon, tuna, eggs, and cereals are rich in vitamin D. Multiple sclerosis also increases the risk of osteoporosis. The body synthesizes calciferol, the active form of vitamin D, and it circulates as a hormone in the blood, helping in reducing inflammation in the central nervous system. It also plays an essential role in proliferation and lymphocyte activation, which helps in regulating immune responses further.

4. Whole grains
Whole grains such as wheat, oats, rye, buckwheat, millet, whole barley, and quinoa are rich in carbohydrates that balance the body’s insulin levels. This sets a chain of chemical processes in the body that can help in fatigue associated with MS. The fiber and carbohydrates present in the whole grains also help maintain blood sugar levels, which help in further managing multiple sclerosis symptoms. However, it is crucial to steer clear of whole grains if the patient is allergic to gluten and opt for gluten-free alternatives.

5. Healthy fats
Healthy fats are found in avocados, cheese, dark chocolate, whole eggs, flaxseeds, chia seeds, fatty fish, and extra virgin olive oil. These foods are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which play a significant role in avoiding inflammation due to the demyelination of the neurons in the central nervous system. However, some of these foods also contain omega-6 fatty acids that might create an imbalance of fatty acids in the body, resulting in the immune system becoming more active and aggravating MS.

6. Fresh fruits and vegetables
A meal rich in fresh fruits and vegetables can help in providing relief from multiple sclerosis. Rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, fruits and vegetables help in reducing oxidative stress caused due to autoimmune attacks. This can result in decreased inflammation in the central nervous system, thereby preventing multiple sclerosis relapses. However, consult a nutritionist or a doctor before including these in your meals to avoid side effects due to other underlying health conditions.