This new Brazilian study (11,560 people with MS) evaluated the incidence, clinical outcome, and impact of COVID-19. The results: the incidence of COVID-19 in participants with MS was not different from those observed for the general population. The majority (87% ) were mild cases. Most of them were on MS disease-modifying treatment and continued the treatment during the pandemic.
Diet & Gut Microbiota
This new study from Australia assessed the benefits of a healthy diet in participants with MS. The conclusion: A healthier diet score was associated with better mental, physical and total quality of life, and lower depression, and pain scores, and fewer cognition, vision and bowel symptoms. Higher reported fibre, fruit, vegetable and healthy fat scores were positively associated with most health outcomes.
Gut microbiome as a therapeutic target for MS. This study found that supplementation with the short fatty acid (SCFA) butyrate has a protective effect against CNS autoimmunity in animal models. I wrote about gut microbiome and MS here.
Obesity, inflammation and autoimmunity. Previous studies found that obesity induces a chronic low‐grade inflammatory state. There is a correlation between obesity and higher prevalence, or worse prognosis, of several autoimmune diseases including: MS, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, inflammatory bowel diseases, type‐1‐diabetes and psoriasis. This new study further supports this idea, showing that leptin promotes autoreactive T‐cell proliferation and proinflammatory cytokine secretion, while inhibits Treg‐cell proliferation.
Herbs
Cinnamon helps improve inflammatory markers (IL-6 and hs-CRP ) and pain associated with MS, according to this new randomized controlled trial. Daily dose of cinnamon : 4 capsules daily (500 mgs true ceylon cinnamon per capsule) for 8 weeks. A quick note: while cinnamon has strong anti-inflammatory effects, it is worth mentioning that the placebo group received the “dummy” pill that contained wheat flour. Wheat flour can be pro-inflammatory, and people with autoimmune diseases may have gluten/ other lectin sensitivities.
CBD and Medical cannabis. Nabiximols (Cannabis based drug Sativex) improves spasticity and related balance issues and walking – both short and long terms, according to this new study. Furthermore, nabiximols were well tolerated, with a good safety profile. This new study is a review of the benefits of CBD oil for MS. Note: although there is limited research available in humans, worth mentioning some of the CBD effects as PPAR gamma and serotonin agonists (I wrote about the benefits of PPAR gamma and serotonin HERE and HERE). The benefits of medical cannabis ( low dose) forMS are reviewed in this study. It was safe and well tolerated; resulted in a reduction in pain intensity, spasticity and sleep disturbances, with no impairment in ambulation, dexterity or processing speed. Conclusion: medical cannabis can be used as an alternative to treat spasticity and pain in MS.
Green tea. This new randomized study suggests that key active ingredients in green tea- may help reduce heart complications in those with MS. Daily dose: 800 mg of EGCG for four months.
Black seed. The benefits of thymoquinone, a key active ingredient in black seed (Nigella sativa) forMS and other autoimmune diseases are reviewed in this new study.
A new review coving the many benefits of andrographolide, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, improvement in glucose metabolism. Andrographolide The main active ingredient from Andrographis paniculata, which was tested in previous studies for MS.
Flavonoids fight neurodegeneration. This new study is an in depth review of the many benefits of flavonoids (plant compounds found in fruits and medicinal herbs). In addition to protecting the brain against free radicals, flavonoids show anticancer, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, anti-aging, and antibacterial activities. These compounds cross easily BBB and reach the brain. Key flavonoids for brain health: quercetin, kaempferol, catechins, rutin, fisetin, baicalein, luteolin and myricetin. This is the summary for MS
The herbal extract of Melilotus Officinalis may ameliorate MS severity, suggests this new study (animal model of MS).
Resveratrol (in nanoparticle form for enhanced bioavailability and solubility ) may offer neuroprotection, suggests this new study. (animal model of MS)
More News
Vitamin D deficiency and depression are commonly associated with MS. This study shows that the lower is the serum vitamin D levels the higher scores for depression and disability.
This new Ducth study suggests that MS relapses may follow seasonal patterns: relapse rates were significantly lower in the summer vacation month (when there is increased exposure to sunlight and less exposure to infections). EDSS (disability) scores slightly higher in the autumn and lower in the spring.
Outdoor air pollution, especially PM (particulate matter ) and nitrogen oxides may be related to the prevalence of relapse of MS, according to this systematic review of multiple studies.
Using molecular hydrogen to combat fatigue related to oxidative stress- is the topic of this new article. Note: other compounds that may help this type of fatigue (seen in MS and other degenerative/age related conditions) include curcumin and N‐acetylcysteine.
Exercise, Yoga, Electric Stimulation & More
Strength training exercises improve balance variables, functional ability, strength, and quality of life in people with MS, according to this new review of multiple studies.
Blood flow restriction (BFR) training ( in which an inflatable cuff partially occludes blood flow around the proximal portion of a limb) coupled with low-intensity resistance training (LIRT) seems to have similar benefits when compared with traditional exercises, according to this new case study. BFR is a great way to gain strength without getting fatigued. More details about BFR, with videos here.
Electrical stimulation of the peroneal nerve using the ActiGait® shows improvement in drop foot (due to MS or stroke), according to this new study.
Cognitive rehabilitation groups show significant improvement in balance skills, according to this new study.
Yoga and group psychotherapy based on acceptance and commitment help reduce fatigue and increase the quality of life of people with MS, according to this new study.
