This new study looked at the benefits of dietary compounds that can help manage neurodegenerative conditions like MS, and delay symptoms. Plant chemicals (e.g., polyphenols), as well as acetyl-L-carnitine, coenzyme Q10, and omega 3 fatty acids showed the most promising results.
In this review, researchers looked at the link between MS and diet -particularly dietary phytoestrogens and the impact of these compounds on the gut flora, immune cells, and nervous system.
Vitamin D. This new study investigated the link between low vitamin D levels and disease activity in cases of (RRMS) and clinically isolated syndrome (CIS).Conclusion: Most individuals were vitamin D deficient. Higher D vitamin levels were associated with positive findings- fewer MRI lesions and lower disability scores.
Vitamin B3 may promote myelin repair, according to this new study.
NAC (the amino acid n-acetyl cysteine) positively affects cerebral glucose metabolism in those with MS, which is associated with patient-reported improvements in cognition and attention, according to this new study.
Nano curcumin. The benefits of nano curcumin were assessed in this new study, where various markers (Th17 and Treg cells frequency, cytokines secretion, and expression of transcription factors of these cells) were compared before/after treatment.
Melatonin. A review of its benefits for MS and other autoimmune diseases: regulates the circadian rhythm, is anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, neuroprotective, antioxidant. Although it shows positive effects for MS and diabetes type 1, it may worsen acute episodes of rheumatoid arthritis.
Apigenin, a common flavonoid found in fruits and vegetables may help MS (the autoimmune response), suggests this new study. A special form of apigenin (the acetylated form) was used.
Betaine is an amino acid appears to be neuroprotective, according to this new study (animal models of MS)
Cannabis. The use of cannabinoids in neurological diseases like Parkinson’s disease, MS, and epilepsy are reviewed in this new study. A second study on cannabis-based therapies reviews the mechanism of action of cannabinoids and their impact on the brain cells, brain inflammation and myelin repair.
Exercise, electrostimulation and more
This new study (cohort blinded study) showed that MFR (myofascial release techniques) was an effective method for management of plantar flexor spasticity in patients with multiple sclerosis in the short term and there was a carryover effect in favor of MFR.
This new study investigated the effect of 8 weeks Pilates training and direct transcranial stimulation (tDCS) on motor and cognitive functions in women with MS. This combination was found helpful in improving motor functions (general endurance, general speed, flexibility, balance).
According to the results of this new study, aerobic training with blood flow restriction helps improve balance strength and thigh hypertrophy (muscle growth) in individuals with MS patients and can be used as an alternative to traditional aerobic training to decrease disability.
New patent application- using electrostimulation of the vagus nerve as a non-invasive therapy to manage MS.
Meditation, relaxation techniques, and spirituality
Mindfulness meditation could serve as a potent rehabilitation tool for individuals with MS, is the conclusion of this new study, as it could help manage emotion dysregulation that is associated with this condition.
Benson relaxation technique can be used as a cost-effective, safe, complementary therapy to reduce fatigue in individuals with MS, according to this new clinical trial.
Neurofeedback exercises can be used as a complementary and effective treatment to improve the quality of life and reduce the anxiety of MS patients, suggests this new clinical trial.
The findings of this new study (randomized controlled trial ) show that spirituality education is effective in reducing the symptoms of depression and anxiety among patients with multiple sclerosis.
The association between MS and other conditions
MS- Urological conditions. This study found that people with MS have a very high prevalence of lower urinary tract symptoms.
MS- Trigeminal Neuralgia (TN).TN is frequently associated with MS, although is rarely seen as the first symptom of MS, according to this new study. Quick note: TN is characterized by pain coming from the trigeminal nerve, and the pain is most commonly one side of the jaw or cheek. It can interfere with eating and drinking, being described as a severe stabbing, electrical sensation.
MS- Restless leg syndrome (RLS). According to this new study, individuals with MS group experience RLS approximately three times more than healthy group.
MS- Lyme disease. This study evaluated the number of individuals with MS who also tested positive for Lyme disease. Although a small number of patients with MS tested positive with Lyme antibodies, researchers believe Lyme disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis in these cases.
MS- heart diseases. Individuals with MS are at increased risk of macrovascular events and death from cardiovascular disease, suggests this new study (past studies found similar conclusions).
MS- high homocysteine levels (high homocysteine levels are linked with increased risk of heart diseases). This new study found that higher homocysteine levels in those with MS compared with control groups, and homocysteine may play a role in the development of MS.
Note: vegetarians are at higher risk to have high homocysteine levels. Here is a good review of homocysteine metabolism and nutrients involved.
Childhood obesity- the risk of MS. This study supports previous findings- that increased body mass index ( BMI) before the age of 10 is an independent causal risk factor for MS and low levels of Vitamin D may also play a role in the development of MS.
The link between viral infections and MS are reviewed in this study- including Epstein-Barr virus, herpes virus HHV-6, Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), Measles, Rubella and Varicella Zoster (VZ) viruses. Conclusion: this topic is still investigated, as well as how these viruses combined with environmental and genetic factors might can contribute to the development of MS
Drugs
Prescription Sativex (cannabis- based drug) used as an add on therapy consistently relieves spasticity and pain associated with spasticity in individuals with MS, according to this new study (randomized controlled trial)
A Phase I randomized trial of liothyronine for remyelination in MS was published this month. Liothyronine (L-T3) is a short-acting thyroid hormone and this study assessed safety, tolerability, and optimal dosing of this drug. No serious adverse events were reported with L-T3 over one week, the most common side effects reported were poor sleep and loose stools.
The impact of the MS drug interferon IFN-beta on pregnancy was evaluated in this new study. Researchers found no evidence that IFN-beta use before conception and/or during pregnancy would increase the risk for congenital anomalies or spontaneous abortions.
More News & Genetics
This new study reinforces previous studies that found higher levels of aluminum in the brain tissue in those with MS, further suggesting that exposure to aluminum may play a role in the development of MS.
Vitamin D receptor genetic polymorphisms and the risk of multiple sclerosis. This new systematic review and meta-analysis found FokI polymorphism showed no significant association with MS risk. ApaI and TaqI TT genotype were found contributing to MS susceptibility and BsmI and FokI showed no relation with MS susceptibility.
