Best supplements for neuropathic pain.This new study evaluates both prescription meds and alternative options.
Neurostimulation methods such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)deep brain stimulation (DBS), epidural muscle lobe stimulated (MCS) and repeated transcranial electric stimuli (rTMS) were found to be effective in treating acute neuropathic pain
Among natural supplements, the following three show the most benefits to manage neuropathic pain (in this study): the aminoacid L-acetyl carnitine, alpha-lipoic acid and benfotiamine (the highly bioavailable form of vitamin B1, which is already used in Japan and Europe for neuropathy).
Diet & The Gut Microbiome
The link between changes in gut flora and MS had been studied previously.This new studyshows a relationship between progressive MS and altered gut bacterial diversity.
A few more new studies exploring changes in the gut microbiome and MS/other neurological conditionshere,here andhere.
Mediterranean diet and supplementation with symbiotics (probiotic-prebiotic combo) for 12 months was found beneficial to manage secondary progressive MS, according tothis new study.
Chronic high fat diet impairs nerve function and mitochondria (the powerhouse of the cells), according tothis new study. Note: this study is not about keto diet (high fat very low carb)- just the chronic high-fat diets (think about Western diet filled with high fat processed foods).
The many benefits of fasting for MS and other autoimmune diseases (a review of animal and human studies) are described inthis new research paper.In animal models of MS, fasting promotes regeneration of brain cells (glial cells), repair of the myelin, reduce inflammation and autoimmune response.
Herbs & Supplements
The benefits of cannabis are reviewed in this study. Regarding CBD- research shows benefits for the following brain conditions: autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, psychosis, neuropathic pain, cancer pain, HIV, migraine, multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington disease, hypoxic-ischemic injury, and epilepsy.
Schisandra Chinensis (the fruit of this plant) shows again potential benefits to improve immune response in MS (animal models of MS) inthis new study
Exercise & CBT
Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) — in the form of mindfulness-integrated cognitive-behavioral therapy (MICBT) is effective on anxiety, sleep quality and fatigue in individuals with MS, according tothis new randomized clinical trial. The same form of therapy may also help manage pain associated with MS, suggestsanother new clinical trial(in progress).
A special exercise program focused on posture and motor function shows improvement in individuals with MS. Researchers involved inthis new studysuggest this program could be used to improve muscle function and posture in those with MS.
More News
Cryotherapy (whole body cryotherapy) not as effective as expected, inthis new study which included 20 daily sessions of cryotherapy and 25 participants with MS. Walking did not improve significantly, but researchers noted some improvement in hand (grip) strength. My note: previous studies showed some benefits- more details about this therapy here, however, I would not recommend 20 daily sessions. Once a week along with other therapies (ie exercise, physio, diet, supplements) may be a better choice. Also, get the ok from a doctor before using this therapy.
Sudden loss of hearing and ringing in the ears (tinnitus) as symptoms of an MS relapse. This rarely happens, but thisnew case study describes a case like this- which affected one ear. Evoked potential tests found abnormal.