Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects millions worldwide, with 85% of individuals diagnosed with the relapsing-remitting form (RRMS), which involves episodes of worsening symptoms followed by periods of remission. However, some people with MS experience minimal disability and relatively normal lives, even after years of living with the condition. A new study suggests that healthy lifestyle habits—such as eating fish, quitting smoking, and avoiding obesity—may play a crucial role in slowing MS progression.
Study Findings: Exploring the Impact of Lifestyle on MS
The research, published in Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, aimed to understand why some individuals with MS experience minimal disability. A team of scientists from China and Sweden analyzed the medical history of 2,040 individuals who had lived with MS for over 15 years but showed minimal disability. They compared this group with 4,283 individuals with more symptomatic forms of MS.
To be classified as “benign,” participants had to score 3 or lower on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), a commonly used tool to measure disability in MS patients. The study revealed that certain lifestyle factors, including diet and body weight, were linked to slower disease progression in MS patients.
Diet and Fish Consumption
One of the most notable findings was that individuals who consumed fish weekly were 44% more likely to have a slower progression of MS. This compared to those who rarely or never included fish in their diet. The benefits seem to stem from the anti-inflammatory properties of fish, especially types rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel. These nutrients can help combat the inflammation that exacerbates MS symptoms.
The Role of Obesity and Infectious Mononucleosis (IM)
The study also found that obesity and a history of infectious mononucleosis (IM), often linked to the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), were significant risk factors for faster MS progression. People who were overweight or obese at age 20 were 31% and 54% less likely, respectively, to experience a mild form of MS compared to those with a normal weight. Additionally, those who had contracted IM were 46% more likely to see disease progression than those who hadn’t been infected.
Obesity increases inflammation in the body, contributing to other health issues such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease. These conditions may worsen MS symptoms over time. Furthermore, a history of IM may trigger lasting inflammation, increasing the likelihood of more severe MS.
Inflammation: The Common Denominator
Experts suggest that the common thread among the lifestyle factors identified in the study is inflammation. Excess body fat is known to cause widespread inflammation, while fish’s omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce it. Dr. Ingrid Loma-Miller, an assistant chief in neuroimmunology at the University of Pittsburgh, emphasizes that chronic inflammation linked to obesity can worsen MS symptoms.
Dr. Claire Riley, director of the Columbia University MS Center, also explains that the immune response triggered by EBV during an IM infection could cause long-lasting inflammation, contributing to MS progression. Although more research is needed to fully understand this link, it highlights the potential impact of immune dysregulation in MS severity.
Lifestyle Changes for Better MS Management
While some risk factors, such as a past history of IM, are beyond control, adopting healthier habits may help slow disease progression. Dr. Riley suggests that people with a history of IM should be monitored more closely for signs of MS progression. Early detection of high-risk individuals could lead to better management and proactive treatment strategies.
Weight Management and MS
Although you can’t change your past weight, losing weight now may help slow the progression of MS, even if the disease has already reached a more severe stage. Dr. Loma-Miller recommends that people with obesity work with their healthcare provider to develop a weight-loss plan. She advises consulting a dietitian to create a tailored approach to weight management that can benefit MS symptoms.
Increase Fish Intake
For those looking to improve their diet, increasing fish consumption may be a simple yet effective change. The American Heart Association recommends two servings of fatty fish per week for heart health, and the Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggest at least 8 ounces of fish each week. These servings provide vital nutrients that support overall health, including anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for MS.
Quitting Smoking
Finally, smoking cessation is another important step for those with MS. Quitting smoking not only improves general health but may also help slow MS progression. Smoking is known to harm nearly every organ in the body, and quitting significantly reduces the risk of developing smoking-related diseases. For MS patients, quitting smoking can offer added benefits by potentially slowing the disease’s progression.
