10 September 2010

You Can Live With Multiple Sclerosis

Most people have heard the dreaded words Multiple Sclerosis but don't really understand what it is and how it affects a person. Myelin insulates the nervous system letting the nerves send impulses rapidly. When the mylein deteriorates, the nerve is affected and starts to degenerate. When this happens, movements become more difficult.

MS is more common in Caucasians but can affect all races. It is often difficult to diagnose as the symptoms vary by individuals. MS symptoms depend on where the nerves are located that are affected (optic nerve,brain etc.) Therefore, different symptoms are present. People may feel tired or experience muscle stiffness which are symptoms of numerous diseases or just the common cold. There may be balance and bowel or bladder problems, mood swings and problems with vision.

A Multiple Sclerosis Diet consists of using common sense and eating well and wisely. The majority of daily calories should come from carbohydrates with approximately 20% more from proteins and another 20% from fats. Vegetables, grains, fruits and low-fat dairy products are also important to the diet.