Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the central nervous system. It disrupts brain-body coordination and leads to other symptoms like fatigue and vision loss. While no particular nutrition plan can prevent or cure multiple sclerosis, research suggests that eating certain foods can help manage the symptoms and slow down the disease’s progression. From fatty fish to ginger and turmeric, here are five foods to help an individual fight multiple sclerosis.

Fatty fish
Fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. And research shows that omega-3s can help reduce and prevent inflammation, which is believed to cause multiple sclerosis relapse. The imbalance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids can make the immune system overactive and worsen the symptoms. Salmon, trout, mackerel, sardines, herring, and tuna are excellent sources of these healthy fatty acids.

Vitamin D-rich foods
Vitamin D deficiency seems to be prevalent among multiple sclerosis patients, which has led researchers to believe that a lack of this vitamin is a risk factor for the disease. Since vitamin D is good for bone health, it also helps lower the chances of developing osteoporosis in people with multiple sclerosis. Though sunlight is the best source of vitamin D, people can acquire it from various foods as well. These include fatty fish like salmon or tuna, fortified dairy products, egg yolks, and fortified cereals and orange juice.

Ginger
Ginger is a lot more than a flavorful spice. It is used to treat numerous health problems in many parts of the world. Ginger has potent anti-neuroinflammatory characteristics, which can help soothe multiple sclerosis symptoms. In addition, studies show that ginger may help calm the immune system, reduce muscle pain, and boost cognitive function, all of which are vital to people with the disease.

Probiotic-rich foods
Gut health plays a crucial role in the development of various diseases. Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts known to strengthen the immune system and improve gut health, which can help reduce multiple sclerosis symptoms. Some of the best sources of probiotics include yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and kombucha.

Turmeric
Like ginger, turmeric is another spice used in several home remedies. Curcumin, an ingredient found in turmeric, has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Researchers believe turmeric can help reduce inflammation and scarring in the neural pathways associated with multiple sclerosis. Turmeric is widely available in powdered form, and one can sprinkle it on everything from cooked vegetables to brown rice.

Although the foods mentioned above can reduce the severity of the disease, some patients may have relapsing MS. It is a condition where the symptoms of multiple sclerosis keep coming back after periods of stability. Thankfully, there are several relapsing MS treatment options. Doctors usually prescribe ZEPOSIA® (ozanimod) capsules once daily in the first week, increasing the dosage gradually. PONVORY™ (ponesimod) is another relapsing MS treatment option. The FDA has recently approved it after extensive clinical trials. Ponesimod is an oral pill that traps lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell) in the lymph nodes, preventing them from entering the bloodstream and spinal cord.