Multiple sclerosis is a disease that affects the central nervous system. It damages the myelin sheath that covers the nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord, causing communication problems between the brain and the rest of the body.
There is no cure for multiple sclerosis, but there are ways to manage it. One of the ways is through diet. Certain foods can aggravate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis and should be avoided. Here are the top 30 foods to avoid with multiple sclerosis:.
1. Gluten
Gluten is a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
2. Dairy Products
Dairy products contain a protein called casein, which can cause inflammation in the body. In addition, many people with multiple sclerosis are lactose intolerant, which can make the symptoms worse.
3. Processed Foods
Processed foods are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. They can also contain additives and preservatives that can aggravate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
4. Sugar
Sugar can cause inflammation in the body and increase the risk of developing diabetes, which can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
5. Red Meat
Red meat is high in saturated fat, which can cause inflammation in the body. In addition, some studies have linked the consumption of red meat to the development of multiple sclerosis.
6. Fried Foods
Fried foods are high in unhealthy fats and can cause inflammation in the body. They can also increase the risk of developing heart disease, which can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
7. Alcohol
Alcohol can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. In addition, it can interact with certain medications used to treat multiple sclerosis.
8. Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. In addition, they can have a negative impact on gut health.
9. Soy
Soy contains a compound called phytoestrogen, which can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. In addition, some people with multiple sclerosis are allergic to soy.
10. Caffeine
Caffeine can interfere with sleep and cause anxiety, which can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. In addition, it can interact with certain medications used to treat multiple sclerosis.
11. Nightshades
Nightshades, such as tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants, contain a compound called solanine, which can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
12. Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega-6 fatty acids can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. They can be found in vegetable oils, such as soybean oil, corn oil, and sunflower oil.
13. MSG
MSG is a flavor enhancer that can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. It is often found in processed foods and Asian cuisine.
14. Refined Grains
Refined grains, such as white bread, white rice, and pasta, are often stripped of their fiber and nutrients. They can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
15. High-Fat Dairy
High-fat dairy, such as cheese and butter, is high in saturated fat, which can cause inflammation in the body. In addition, many people with multiple sclerosis are lactose intolerant, which can make the symptoms worse.
16. Artificial Colors and Flavors
Artificial colors and flavors can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. They are often found in processed foods and snacks.
17. Hydrogenated Oils
Hydrogenated oils, also known as trans fats, can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. They are often found in baked goods, fried foods, and processed foods.
18. Saturated Fats
Saturated fats can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. They are often found in animal products, such as meat, butter, and cheese.
19. Shellfish
Shellfish can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. In addition, some people with multiple sclerosis have an allergic reaction to shellfish.
20. Processed Meats
Processed meats, such as bacon, sausage, and deli meats, are high in unhealthy fats and can cause inflammation in the body. They can also increase the risk of developing heart disease, which can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
21. High-Sugar Fruits
High-sugar fruits, such as bananas, grapes, and mangoes, can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. They can also spike blood sugar levels, which can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
22. Margarine
Margarine is high in unhealthy fats and can cause inflammation in the body. It is often used as a substitute for butter, which is also high in saturated fat.
23. Corn Syrup
Corn syrup is a sweetener that can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. It is often found in processed foods and drinks.
24. High-Sodium Foods
High-sodium foods, such as processed foods and snacks, can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
They can also increase the risk of developing high blood pressure, which can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
25. Peanut Butter
Peanut butter can contain additives and preservatives that can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. In addition, it can interact with certain medications used to treat multiple sclerosis.
26. Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can dry out the skin and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. It is recommended to use soap and water to wash hands instead.
27. Fast Food
Fast food is often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. It can also contain additives and preservatives that can aggravate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
28. Energy Drinks
Energy drinks can contain high amounts of caffeine and artificial sweeteners, which can worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis. In addition, they can interact with certain medications used to treat multiple sclerosis.
29. Soy Sauce
Soy sauce can contain high amounts of salt and MSG, which can cause inflammation in the body and worsen the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.
30. Junk Foods
Junk foods, such as chips, candy, and cookies, are often high in salt, sugar, and unhealthy fats. They can also contain additives and preservatives that can aggravate the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.