Multiple Sclerosis

> immune system attacks the protective sheath (myelin) that covers nerve fibers and causes communication problems between your brain and the rest of your body.

Signs and symptoms of MS include: [1] numbness or weakness in limbs, [2] tingling, [3] electric-shock sensations occur when bending the neck forward, [4] lack of coordination, [5] unsteady gait, [6] partial loss of vision, prolonged double vision or blurry vision, [7] vertigo, [8] sexual, bowel & bladder dysfunction, [9] fatigue, [10] slurred speech, [11] cognitive problems, and [12] mood disturbances.

Risk Factors include: > Age- usually occurs at 20 - 40 years. > Sex- women are up to 3 times as likely as men are to have relapsing-remitting MS. > Family history- if parent or sibling has MS, you are at higher risk. > Certain infections- such as Epstein-Barr virus which causes glandular fever. > Race- white people of Northern European descent, are at highest risk. > Climate- temperate climates, including Canada, and northern USA and Europe. > Vitamin D- low levels of vitamin D (& sunlight) increases risk. > Genes- gene on chromosome 6p21 is associated with MS. > Obesity- association with obesity and MS has been found in females. > Certain autoimmune diseases- slightly higher risk of developing MS if you have thyroid disease, pernicious anemia, psoriasis, type 1 diabetes or IBD > Smoking- smokers who experience an initial MS symptom are more likely to develop a second event that confirms relapsing-remitting MS.

Your naturopathic nutritionist may advise: Diet > an anti-inflammatory, low fat and high fibre diet (Mediterranean). > increase [1] fruits including berries and avocado, [2] rainbow of vegetables, [3] whole grains, [4] salmon, sardines, mackerel, [5] ginger, turmeric, garlic, cinnamon. Supplements 1/ Vitamins C: antioxidant may slow inflammation and prevent UTIs. 2/ Vitamin B1: nervous system health – may reduce MS symptoms. 3/ Vitamin B6: supports cognitive function and myelin formation. 4/ Vitamin B12: supports myelin, nerve cell repair and energy production. 5/ Vitamin B9 (folate): (with B12) lowers homocysteine & improves anemia. 6/ Vitamin K2: protects the brain cells that make myelin. 7/ Vitamin D: high dose should be prescribed by GP. (Information adapted from: www.mayoclinic.org)