5 Eating and Lifestyle Tips to Manage Multiple Sclerosis

5 Eating and Lifestyle Tips to Manage Multiple Sclerosis

Since multiple sclerosis (MS) impacts the nervous system, it can lead to fatigue, numbness, and physical imbalance. However, by following healthy habits and taking care of the body and a treatment plan, it is possible to tackle the symptoms effectively.

Here are some lifestyle tips for managing multiple sclerosis:

1. Introduce nutritious foods to the diet
Even though there is no special eating plan for multiple sclerosis, a healthy diet can keep one energetic and help overcome fatigue and chronic conditions, such as type 2 diabetes. The diet should include plenty of fruits and vegetables, protein, and omega 3-fatty acids. Consider including whole grains, lentils, dried beans, and other sources of healthy fiber, along with copious amounts of fluid. One can also add herbs and spices to enhance the flavor of their meals if multiple sclerosis has affected their sense of taste.

2. Incorporate exercise into the daily routine
If one has multiple sclerosis, exercising will not only keep them fit but also functional. With regular exercise, it is possible to improve balance, stimulate flexibility, and eliminate common problems, such as cognitive issues, insomnia, and constipation, associated with multiple sclerosis. It is advisable to seek help from a physical therapist to choose the activities that strengthen the weaker parts of one’s body. Health experts recommend at least five days of low-impact exercise each week for the best results.

3. Engage in activities that challenge the brain
It is also crucial to exercise the brain other than physical exercise. Those with multiple sclerosis often lose their cognitive abilities and require more effort to do some tasks than their healthy counterparts. However, by engaging in mentally challenging activities, such as word games and puzzles, one can help keep the brain active and sharp. They must also motivate themselves to participate in social activities to improve brain function.

4. Stay well-rested
Staying well-rested is one of the most crucial lifestyle tips to manage multiple sclerosis. Sleep helps the body to heal and overcome the stress of an illness. This is why one must get a good night’s sleep. It is essential to start by formulating a sleep schedule and trying to maintain it. One can do that by keeping their bedroom free from all distractions, avoiding fluids before bedtime, and creating a relaxing routine of reading, meditation, or listening to calming music. All these factors will help one sleep soundly and keep them well-rested. If one often struggles to sleep, they should discuss it with their doctor to come up with a treatment plan.

5. Take vitamin D supplements
Scientists recently published a paper that found a link between multiple sclerosis and vitamin D deficiencies. By increasing vitamin D intake, one may reduce the disease’s progression and experience fewer relapses.

A healthy lifestyle can make a huge difference when one has a progressive condition like multiple sclerosis.