Having MS does not require a special diet; however, eating a healthful diet ensures that your body has the nutrients it needs to work its best, and may help you improve your sense of wellbeing.
* Proteins support growth and tissue repair
* Carbohydrates and sugars provide your body with energy
* Fats absorb vitamins and provide essential fatty acids (EFAs)
* Fiber aids digestion
* Vitamins and minerals are important for tissue repair, bone strength,
and absorption of nutrients
* Fluids carry nutrients throughout your body and aid in chemical processes
Tips for Healthy Eating
*Avoid eating an excess of saturated fat and hydrogenated vegetable oil. These are
found in sweets such as pastries, chocolate, and cakes. It is okay to eat small
portions on occassion.
*Eat five portions of fruit and vegetables a day. Dark green leafy vegetables are a good
source of omega 3 EFA.
*Eat lean cuts of meat (burgers and sausage are high in saturated fat). Meat is an
important source of zinc, iron, protein, and vitamin B.
*Use polyunsaturated margarine and oil (sunflower or corn oil) instead of lard or butter.
Sunflower and corn oil are good sources of omega 6 EFA.
*Instead of frying food, try poaching, baking or steaming it.
*Use low-fat dairy products such as skim milk, low fat cheese and low fat yogurt.
*Drink 6-8 cups of fluid each day. Highly caffeinated drinks like coffee or energy drinks
can dehydrate your body.
*Eat two portions of fish per week; one portion should be an oily fish, such as salmon,
sardines or mackerel. Oily fish are rich in omega 3 EFA and vitamins D and A.
*Eat multigrain or whole wheat breads instead of white bread.
*Eat whole grain rather than sugary cereals.
*Although a small amount of alcohol on occassion is acceptable, keep in mind that
large amounts of alcohol can exacerbate MS sympotoms.
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