While they aren’t a substitute for treatment, lifestyle changes can makesymptomsand relapses easier to manage.
These changes don’t need to be made all at once.
Be realistic about what works for you.
eyecrave / Getty Images
Small changes over time can have a big impact.
Some of these proposed special diets could even be harmful.
Instead, the same nutritious foods recommended for all adults are recommended for people with MS as well.
However, this can negatively impact their quality of life.
Incorporating participation in meaningful and enjoyable activities into the treatment plan for people with MS is important.
Acceptance is an ongoing process that involves work and even grieving.
But it can ultimately lead toimproved life satisfaction.
What to Expect
MS is not one-size-fits-all.
Some people feel scared, sad, angry, shocked, uncertain, and many other powerful emotions.
Others can feel relieved to have an answer for the symptoms they have been experiencing.
There is no right or wrong way to react to being diagnosed with MS.
If you are struggling, talk to your healthcare provider or a mental health professional.
They can help you find the support you need.
Prioritizing your mental health is just as important as your physical health.
Talk to your healthcare provider about activities and lifestyle changes that are appropriate for you to try.
MS symptoms, severity, progression, and prognosis vary greatly.
It’s impossible to predict exactly how MS will affect you over time.
Multiple Sclerosis Trust.Lifestyle choices.
2018;16(1):32-39. doi:10.1176/appi.focus.20170039
University of California San Francisco.Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with multiple sclerosis.
Johns Hopkins.5 tips for living better with MS: patients and caregivers.
Multiple Sclerosis Trust.What happens after diagnosis?
National Multiple Sclerosis Society.Sleep.
Cedars-Sinai.MS and diet: what you should know.
2020;101(10):1839-1841. doi:10.1016/j.apmr.2020.06.001
MS Society of Canada.Healthy eating.
2020;11:781. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2020.00781
National Multiple Sclerosis Society.Exercising with multiple sclerosis.
MS Society of Canada.Exercise and physical activity.
MS Society of Canada.Common questions.
2022;145(4):1368-1378. doi:10.1093/brain/awab385
National Multiple Sclerosis Society.Accommodations.
National Multiple Sclerosis Society.Understanding MS.