Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a debilitating disease that affects millions of people worldwide. It is an autoimmune disease that attacks the central nervous system, causing damage to the nerves, resulting in a myriad of symptoms.

One of the most common symptoms of MS is fatigue, which can be debilitating and have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. However, new research has found that chocolate can help ease MS fatigue.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system.

The immune system mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath, the protective covering of nerves, causing damage and disrupting the flow of information from the brain to the body.

The symptoms of MS vary widely and can include fatigue, muscle weakness, difficulty walking, numbness or tingling in the limbs, vision problems, and cognitive impairment.

Some people with MS experience mild symptoms, while others can have severe and debilitating symptoms that affect their quality of life.

What is MS Fatigue?

One of the most common symptoms of MS is fatigue. MS fatigue is different from normal everyday fatigue and is often described as overwhelming and debilitating. It can cause extreme tiredness, weakness, and exhaustion that can last for days or even weeks.

MS fatigue can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life and can make it difficult to carry out daily activities such as working, socializing, and even taking care of oneself.

How Does Chocolate Help Ease MS Fatigue?

Chocolate contains a compound called theobromine, which has been found to have a stimulating effect on the central nervous system. Theobromine is a mild stimulant that can help improve mood, increase energy levels, and reduce fatigue.

In a study conducted by researchers at Oxford Brookes University in the UK, participants with MS were given high-cocoa chocolate for six weeks.

The study found that the participants’ fatigue levels decreased by more than 40% after consuming the chocolate. The participants also reported an improvement in mood and an increase in energy levels.

What Type of Chocolate Should You Eat?

If you’re looking to alleviate your MS fatigue with chocolate, it’s important to choose the right type of chocolate.

The chocolate used in the study conducted by Oxford Brookes University was high-cocoa dark chocolate, which contains a higher percentage of theobromine than milk chocolate.

When choosing chocolate, look for dark chocolate that contains at least 70% cocoa.

Dark chocolate is also lower in sugar than milk chocolate, which can be beneficial for people with MS, as high sugar intake has been linked to increased inflammation in the body.

How Much Chocolate Should You Eat?

While chocolate can help ease MS fatigue, it’s important to remember that it should be consumed in moderation. Chocolate is high in calories and can contribute to weight gain if consumed in excess.

The participants in the study by Oxford Brookes University were given 45g of high-cocoa chocolate per day. This is equivalent to about two small squares of chocolate.

It’s important to stick to this amount and not overindulge in chocolate, even if you’re feeling fatigued.

Other Ways to Alleviate MS Fatigue

While chocolate can be a helpful tool for alleviating MS fatigue, it’s important to note that it should be used in conjunction with other treatments and lifestyle changes. Here are some other ways to alleviate MS fatigue:.

Exercise regularly
Eat a healthy, balanced diet
Get adequate rest and sleep
Manage stress and anxiety
Consider psychological therapies such as cognitive-behavioral therapy
Talk to your doctor about medications that can help alleviate fatigue

Conclusion

MS fatigue is a common and debilitating symptom of multiple sclerosis. While there is no cure for MS, research has found that chocolate can help ease fatigue in people with MS.

Theobromine, a compound found in chocolate, has a stimulating effect on the central nervous system, reducing fatigue and increasing energy levels. However, it’s important to choose the right type of chocolate and consume it in moderation. Chocolate should be used in conjunction with other treatments and lifestyle changes for optimal results.