Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an unpredictable, often disabling disease of the central nervous system that disrupts the flow of information within the brain, and between the brain and body. Multiple sclerosis (MS) involves an immune-mediated process in which an abnormal response of the body’s immune system is directed against the central nervous system . The central nervous system is made up of the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves. Within the central nervous system, the immune system causes inflammation that damages myelin— the fatty substance that surrounds and insulates the nerve fibers — as well as the nerve fibers themselves, and the specialized cells that make myelin. Estimates indicate that 2.5 million people are affected by MS. The number of people diagnosed grows each year.
Common Symptoms:
Fatigue, Numbness and Tingling, Weakness, Dizziness and Vertigo, Sexual Problems, Pain, Emotional Changes, Depression, Cognitive Changes, Bowel Problems, Bladder Problems, Vision Changes, Spasticity, and Walking Challenges.
Lifestyle Recommendations:
• Try to expose most of the body to the sun between 11-2 pm for at least 20 min. on each side. This may result in the production of 10,000 IU vitamin D per day. Sun exposure has additional benefits for the immune system aside from stimulating vitamin D production. Measure blood levels of 25(OH)D3 (optimal range 60-70mg/mL). • Check for Candida albicans and chronic viral infections, and refer to relevant Nutrition Support Protocols. Mercury is also considered to be a possible contributing cause of MS. Check heavy metal levels and detoxify if indicated. Check CMP for possible excess AA, deficient EPA and possible higher than optimal AA/EPA ratio (which is known to exacerbate autoimmune activity). Consider ordering an MS panel to check for antibodies to myelin sheaths and brain structures. • Check for IgG food sensitivities, gut dysbiosis, and AA:EPA ratio. • Test hormones. Based on hormone levels and hormonal balance, consider DHEA if necessary, which shifts immune balance towards tolerance (TH1/TH2). Progesterone and pregnenolone may help regenerate myelin sheaths and may have a neuronal regenerative effect. • Address stress at all levels including physical, psychological, emotional and spiritual.
Dietary Tips and Caveats:
• The primary dietary goal is to remove all foods that may be triggering the body to attack its own tissues. Maintain a diet free of grains, dairy, legumes and yeast. Researchers believe that one of the possible causes of autoimmune ailments, such as MS, is the consumption of certain foods that are new to humanity (grain products, dairy products, lentils and beans, and yeasted foods) which have only appeared in the past 40,000 years. • Consume a diet rich in organic fruits and vegetables, including brightly colored varieties and cruciferous vegetables. • Reduce sugar in the diet; avoid white flour products, refined carbohydrates and other high glycemic foods such as white potatoes. • Favor a diet high in essential fatty acids such as flax oil, fish oils, fresh fish, and raw nuts and seeds. Avoid safflower, corn, sunflower and soybean oils, which aggravate inflammation, as well as fried foods, trans fats and partially hydrogenated oils. • Add gut-healing bone broth and fermented foods to the diet. • Include healthy spices and herbs. • Avoid nightshades such as peppers, potatoes, tomatoes, and eggplant if necessary.
Why Neurofeedback Can Help Your MS:
The neurobehavioral aspects of MS consist of both cognitive dysfunction and neuropsychiatric disorders. Cognitive difficulties occur about 60% of MS patients, and are usually the first symptoms to present themselves. These symptoms can include memory retrieval, mental processing speed, reasoning and goal-oriented behavior, verbal fluency, and visuospatial skills. Neuropsychiatric disturbances mainly consist of mood disorders. They may be present in either relapsing attacks or in a chronic progressive course of the disease. Mood disorders are more common in MS than in other chronic disabilities. Collectively, major depression, bipolar illness, and dysphoria occur in the majority of MS patients, with severe depression occurring in upwards of 54%. MS patients may experience sudden neurologic deterioration, which can be brought on by elevated body temperature. The temporary worsening that is frequently associated with febrile illnesses also may manifest during physical exercise. Blurred vision is the most commonly reported transient neurological symptom that is brought on by moderate exercise. Because neurofeedback is involved in helping the nervous system regulate itself, it can be used with patients of all ages with a wide range of concerns. For many patients seeking this form of training, their brains have become stuck in a rigid pattern of responding. With neurofeedback, we can help the brain to become more flexible and efficient, allowing the patient to be better able to adapt to challenges brought on by MS.
Chiropractic and MS:
Subluxation, misalignment of the spine, in the neck region can compromise the proper functioning of the central nervous system. Individuals with upper cervical misalignment and an MS diagnosis have felt substantial improvement and even reversal of symptoms when chiropractic adjustments are made. Many MS suffer from joint and back pain as well. Regular adjustments will assist the patient in find relief from the pain and the discomfort that they experience. The central nervous system performs at optimal levels when it is clear and free of any restrictions , Chiropractic adjustments can return your body back to it's innate state to assist in managing the disease.