The ketogenic diet may help relieve inflammation people with MS may experience. It’s a low carb diet that induces a state of ketosis. But the connection between the keto diet and MS is not yet well understood.
While research on whether diet and multiple sclerosis (MS) are related, some people might recommend switching to the ketogenic diet to help manage inflammation from MS.
But is it really effective?
Keto vs. true ketogenic diet
A true ketogenic diet induces a state of ketosis and involves no carbohydrates. This is in contrast to the more well-known and less restrictive keto diet, which is low in carbs.
Usually, a true ketogenic diet is used for the control of refractory epilepsy. It’s extremely difficult to follow this diet, and it must be strictly followed in order to have an effect on seizure control.
The process by which the ketogenic diet controls epilepsy is different from any effect it has on MS.
The ketogenic diet, or keto diet, is high in fat, moderate in protein, and low in carbs. It typically
- 70% fat
- 20% protein
- 10% carbs
A state of ketosis is induced when you consume 0 carbs, during which the body relies on fat instead of glucose as its primary fuel source.
A keto diet causes your body to rely on fat for energy rather than carbs.
Glucose is the body’s preferred fuel, but your metabolism changes when you restrict your carb intake.
Your liver starts producing molecules called ketone bodies, which appear to protect the nervous system’s cells during ketosis.
Scientists
Studies are still new in examining whether following a modified keto diet may help treat MS through various mechanisms, including reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.
Potential benefits of eating a high fat, low carb diet with a moderate amount of protein include:
- antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities
- protection against various forms of cell death
- ketones act as an alternative energy source during metabolic stress
reduced toxic effects of the amino acid glutamate. High levels of glutamate are associated with disease activity or relapse in people with MS.aid weight loss
The key to any diet in MS is to:
- reduce inflammation
- maintain protein to avoid muscle loss
- avoid too much weight gain or loss
- reduce risk of other diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease
A typical keto diet consists mostly of proteins and healthy fats, with minimal carbohydrates. These should ideally come from produce, nuts, or dairy. It should also consist of whole, unprocessed foods.
Researchers don’t fully know what causes the keto diet’s neuroprotective qualities.
No current evidence exists that proves the keto diet may improve MS symptoms, but ongoing research is looking at whether it might offer some benefits.
Participants in one small study experienced decreased levels of fatigue and depression after 3 to 6 months on the modified Atkins diet, which is a less restrictive version of the keto diet.
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All participants had relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) and were asked to adopt either a ketogenic, fasting, or standard diet.
Eating a diet high in fat may sound counterintuitive to a balanced diet. The key lies in the types of fat you include.
Here are some tips for eating healthy fats that are encouraged in a ketogenic version of the Mediterranean diet:
- Avocados are versatile sources of healthy fats and potassium.
- Use olive, sesame, or avocado oils for salad dressings and meal preparation.
- Salmon, mackerel, and other fish and seafood are high in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Almonds, walnuts, pecans, and pistachios are all good sources of monounsaturated fats.
- Pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are great snacks that contain polyunsaturated fats.
- Chia seeds and ground flaxseeds provide fiber, omega-3s, vitamins, and minerals.
Saturated fats, such as coconut oil, duck fat, and butter, are encouraged in the original ketogenic diet. This helps you consume enough fat daily.
The ketogenic Mediterranean diet recommends a moderate intake of saturated fats and a higher intake of plant-based unsaturated fats.
To limit carbs, you must be aware of which . Most people must limit their carb intake to
There are two main types of carbs: simple and complex.
Simple carbs are found in:
- all forms of sugar
- milk, which contains lactose (a type of sugar)
- fruit and vegetable juices
Complex carbs are found in:
- beans
- starchy vegetables like potatoes
- cereal and grains
- whole fruits
Complex carbs typically contain more fiber and nutrients, making them the ideal choice for steady energy and overall health.
More research is required before we know the benefits of a ketogenic diet for people with MS.
Other diets may be worth considering for people trying to manage their MS. These include the low fat Swank diet, paleo diet, and modified paleo diet known as the Wahls diet.
Talk with your doctor if you’re considering a dietary approach to help treat your MS.