Dietary Treatments For Multiple Sclerosis - Alternative Treatments

Alternative Treatments

A recent study found that over 60% of MS patients use complementary and alternative medicine, possibly because conventional treatments lack effectiveness. Except for vitamin D, evidence is lacking for these treatments and there are no clear guidelines for their use.

The effect of diet on MS is unclear, with studies unable to show whether diet contributes to MS or can alter its course. Ecologic studies have found a link between high consumptions of polyunsaturated fats and low MS prevalence. The most promising evidence comes from daily supplementation with vitamin D. Evidence is lacking for several other widely promoted non-herbal supplements, including vitamin B12, alpha-lipoic acid, luteolin, and evening primrose oil. Many diets have been proposed for treating the symptoms of the disease. Patients have reported a decrease in symptoms after long-term application of changes in diet; however, no controlled trials have been able to prove their efficacy. Even if these diets are genuinely beneficial for people with MS, it is not known whether this is due to any special traits for MS, as opposed to their known benefits for whole body health. Two examples of such diets are the low saturated fat Swank Multiple Sclerosis Diet.

Herbal medicine is another source of alternative treatments. Many patients use medical marijuana to help alleviate symptoms; however, the results of experimental studies are scarce and further clinical trials are required. Derivatives from the herb common rue (Ruta graveolens); which contain compounds that block K_v1.3 channels in T cells; have also been suggested to ameliorate MS symptoms. K_v1.3 channel-blockers are in development for the treatment of the disease.

Bee venom therapy has been promoted as a possible treatment for MS, as it is thought to be an anti-inflammatory and inflammation is a component of MS. Research results have been variable and its benefit has not been demonstrated. Its greatest safety issue is the risk of anaphylactic shock, as about 15% of the population is allergic to bee stings.

Hyperbaric oxygenation has been the subject of several small studies with heterogeneous results which, overall, do not support its use.

Relaxation disciplines such as yoga, and general exercise, seem to mitigate fatigue and improve quality of life. Some studies also show benefits on physical variables, such as balance and strength or cardiovascular and respiratory function, but more investigation is needed as the studies are usually of low quality.