Diet and multiple sclerosis onset

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system, commonly diagnosed in individuals aged 20 to 40. It leads to cognitive and physical impairments, including coordination issues, paralysis, sensory disturbances, and vision problems. MS is classified into subtypes like clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing-remitting, primary progressive, and secondary progressive MS.

In England, 8 to 11 new MS cases per 100,000 individuals are reported annually, with women being twice as likely as men to be diagnosed. MS development involves genetic and environmental factors such as UVB light exposure, Epstein-Barr virus infection, obesity, and smoking.

Diet plays a crucial role in gut health and may impact MS through the gut-brain axis. A recent UK Biobank study found that a healthy lifestyle, including regular physical activity, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy BMI, is inversely associated with MS prevalence. The study also highlighted the benefits of consuming vegetables, fish, seafood, nuts, dairy, and whole grains for MS symptom improvement.

The UK Biobank study tracked 70,467 individuals over 12 years, identifying 478 MS cases. Smoking, particularly among current smokers, was linked to increased MS risk, suggesting that quitting smoking could significantly reduce MS incidence. Other risk factors include vitamin D deficiency, EBV infection, and genetic predispositions.

Moderate consumption of oily fish and alcohol showed a protective effect against MS. Omega-3 fatty acids in fish and moderate alcohol intake were linked to lower MS risk, supporting previous findings that the Mediterranean diet helps prevent non-communicable diseases.

Further research is needed to understand how specific types of alcohol affect MS risk. Overall, lifestyle modifications, including diet and smoking cessation, play a vital role in reducing MS risk and managing symptoms.