Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a challenging condition that affects individuals in various ways. One of its often-overlooked symptoms is debilitating fatigue.
New research from Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) suggests that individuals with MS could find relief from this fatigue through a low-fat diet.
The study, published in the Multiple Sclerosis Journal, builds on a decade of OHSU research emphasizing the importance of diet in managing MS-related symptoms.
Addressing the Impact of Fatigue in MS
Fatigue is a particularly disabling symptom for individuals living with MS. Despite its significant impact on their quality of life, there is currently no FDA-approved medication to treat MS-related fatigue.
Recognizing this unmet need, the researchers at OHSU set out to investigate whether dietary changes could offer relief to those struggling with this challenging symptom.
The study employed a randomized controlled trial, involving 39 individuals with MS who experienced fatigue. These participants were divided into two groups:
- Control Group: Comprising 19 individuals who received diet training after the 16-week study period.
- Active Group: Comprising 20 individuals who received nutrition counseling from dieticians and adhered to a low-fat diet throughout the study.
The adherence to the low-fat diet was confirmed through routine blood sampling, providing clear evidence of reduced caloric intake.
The Significance of Biomarkers
Principal investigator Dr. Vijayshree Yadav emphasized the importance of biomarkers in the study, stating, “You cannot really fudge the biomarkers.” This highlights the objective nature of the study’s measurements and the credibility of the findings.
Unlike a previous study in 2016 that tested a purely plant-based diet, the new study incorporated meat while still maintaining a low-fat approach.
Notably, exercise was not included as part of the intervention, meaning that the study focused solely on the impact of diet on MS-related fatigue.
The results of the study were promising. Participants in the active group, who followed the low-fat diet, experienced significant improvements in fatigue.
This improvement was assessed using the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale, which evaluated aspects such as attention, concentration, and the ability to perform routine physical activities.
The findings reinforced the notion that a low-fat diet can have a meaningful impact on reducing fatigue levels in individuals with MS, without necessitating a transition to a fully vegan diet.
Conclusion
The research conducted at OHSU underscores the potential benefits of dietary interventions, specifically low-fat diets, for individuals with MS grappling with fatigue.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution for managing MS-related symptoms, this study offers hope and practical insights for enhancing the quality of life for those living with this challenging condition.
Further research in this area may pave the way for improved strategies to address the multifaceted impact of MS on individuals’ lives.
If you care about nutrition, please read studies about a breakfast linked to better blood vessel health, and drinking too much coffee could harm people with high blood pressure.
For more information about health, please see recent studies about unhealthy habits that may increase high blood pressure risk, and results showing plant-based protein foods may help reverse diabetes.
The research findings can be found in Multiple Sclerosis Journal.
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