Pay Attention to Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Studies on omega-3 fatty acids and dietary supplementation are not conclusive. Reducing inflammation is possible by increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids while at the same time reducing intake of omega-6 fatty acids (sausage, meat, sunflower oil, safflower oil, corn oil, soybean oil, etc.).
A 2016 study showed that long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish or algae oils) should always be present, and that they can only reduce MS risk when taken for at least 12 months. In contrast, short-chain omega-3 fatty acids such as flaxseed oil and chia seed do not have a comparable beneficial effect. Long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) have anti-inflammatory, anticoagulant, and immunoregulatory effects. In healthy individuals in particular, the brain contains higher DHA levels, whereas in MS patients these levels are consistently reduced.
Insulin also increases the formation of messenger substances that trigger this inflammation. Blood sugar fluctuations caused by foods rich in sugar and white flour should be avoided. These foods particularly cause inflammation after meals.
Omega-3 fatty acids prevent postprandial (after-meal) inflammation
Depending on the type of food, more or less pronounced oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions occur after eating. This is called "postprandial inflammation."
The eating habits described (too much fat, animal products, too much salt, too much sugar, a high glycemic load, and generally a very high-calorie diet) strengthen these reactions. Glycemic load indicates how much a food will raise blood sugar levels. The higher the glycemic load value, the less healthy the food is considered to be.
Postprandial inflammation is inhibited by omega-3 fatty acids, a low-calorie diet, exercise, as well as vital substances and plants with antioxidant effects.
Meat and dairy products cause activation in multiple sclerosis
Red meat products and dairy products can also accelerate inflammation through various mechanisms or trigger processes that cause an increase in MS.
High iron content triggers inflammation in MS patients. Red meat consumption leads to higher levels of inflammation. The arachidonic acid and iron it contains likely trigger inflammation.
Dairy products contain certain proteins and fats that may play a causal role in MS. This can lead to the myelin sheath being attacked by immune system antibodies in MS, which in turn destroys the nerve-protecting layer.
A diet high in salt increases inflammation in multiple sclerosis
Various studies report that a high-salt diet can accelerate inflammatory processes in the nervous system and can also impair the functioning of a healthy immune system. Cheese, sausage, crackers, chips, ready-made soups, or breads with high salt content should not be part of the diet.
For more information on this and similar topics, you can benefit from my book "Anti-Inflammatory Nutrition Guide."