Last Updated on December 6, 2023 by Cathy
Can MS go into remission? That’s the first question after being diagnosed with an autoimmune disease like multiple sclerosis (MS). Doctors want you to start one of their conventional disease-modifying drugs immediately. But they come with many nasty side effects and you don’t feel like taking them.
Unfortunately, most doctors don’t try to figure out the root cause of your MS. They only give you a band-aid hoping it will “slow” the disease down. (If it works!) Did you know many neurologists get paid to push pharmaceutical company’s drugs? You can see if your doctor is being paid by submitting their name into The Open Payment Data.
Triggers to MS:
- Poor Diet
- Infections (bacteria, parasites, viruses, and yeast overgrowth)
- Environmental toxins (heavy metals, mold, pesticides, etc.)
- Chronic stress
- Hormones (adrenaline, cortisol, etc.)
Diet
Neurologists don’t tell you about nutrition or how food plays a huge role in autoimmune diseases. My neurologist told me “Diet doesn’t work” (insert eye roll). But, if you have MS you likely have a leaky gut. That’s where the lining of your gut separates. Which allows larger food particles and toxins to enter your bloodstream.
Researchers discovered people with MS have more bad bacteria than healthy people. In other words, they are missing the “good” bacteria in their guts. The National MS Society has granted money for studies on this research.
So how does this happen? That’s the big question, sometimes it feels like trying to find a needle in a haystack. More than likely it’s caused by processed foods or infections like Candida. But don’t feel overwhelmed, I’m am going to attempt to make it a bit easier for you below.
The first step is to clean up your diet. Like they say “You are what you eat.” That means starting to eat nutrient-dense foods your body desperately needs. If you need help check out The Ultimate Guide to Surviving and Thriving with MS below. It includes a list of foods that will help you heal your gut.
Here are some articles to help you get started:
Candida
Many people with MS also suffer from a yeast overgrowth called Candida. Candida is in everyone’s body but in small amounts. It helps with digestion and nutrient absorption. It also helps keep a good balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. It’s when it overproduces that it becomes a severe problem. This can lead to many health issues including a leaky gut.
Here are some articles to help you with Candida:
Environmental Toxins
It’s hard to avoid environmental toxins because they are everywhere. Including our household cleaners, the water we drink, and the air we breathe. The more unhealthy our environment is, the more unhealthy we are. It’s impossible to remove all these toxins but you can reduce as much as possible. Every little bit helps!
Start by using natural cleaning products. Add a water filter to your faucet or the whole house. Get an air filter system or buy some household plants to clean up the air in your house. Stop using plastics that contain BPA. Find areas in your home that may be harboring mold, if it’s really bad you should hire an expert to remove it.
Stop exposing yourself to heavy metals. Amalgam fillings are toxic and linked to MS. If you have any of these fillings you need to see a specialist and have them carefully removed. These are also called silver fillings but they also contain mercury. Mercury is toxic to the nervous system.
Chronic Stress
Chronic stress is probably the worst trigger for most people with MS. It not only causes high blood pressure but it affects our nervous system and brings on MS flares. It creates brain fog, messes up your digestive system, and disrupts your sleep.
When I was younger I kind of thrived on stress, it got my adrenaline pumping. But today, it seems like the slightest little bit of chronic stress and I can feel MS trying to creep back in. A little tingle here a little numbness there.
Stress also raises the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol is the fight-or-flight reaction we need when there’s an emergency, which is good. Cortisol controls blood sugar levels, and blood pressure, and helps reduce inflammation.
It’s when you’re under chronic stress cortisol doesn’t have a chance to go back to normal levels. It keeps blood sugars (glucose) high allowing Candida and bad bacteria to thrive. They both feed on sugar. Chronic stress wreaks havoc on every part of the body putting you at a higher risk for health problems.
Genetics
MS is not hereditary but researchers are beginning to think some people have a higher risk due to their genes. I took a DNA test through 23andMe and discovered I had a three times higher risk for MS. It was shocking since no one in my family had MS.
You can read about my DNA experience here: DNA Test for Multiple Sclerosis.
It doesn’t fully lie in your DNA, it’s how you live your lifestyle. What you eat, what you do, and how you react. Sure, you can’t change your genes but you can change your lifestyle toward health.
Can MS go into remission?
Yes, it can! Remember, it’s okay to be angry or scared. It’s NOT okay to blame yourself. YOU did not do this to yourself! It’s time to take charge of your health and move forward with your new lifestyle.
Your body is amazing, as you strengthen your body it will have the ability to heal itself. Yes, it is hard but as you move forward you’re promoting health and keeping the progression of MS away!
Ultimate Guide to Surviving & Thriving with MS
Unlock the power of a healthy lifestyle with this exclusive ebook! Discover practical strategies and expert advice on managing MS naturally through nutritious eating and mindful living. This comprehensive guide is packed with wellness tips, and lifestyle recommendations tailored specifically for you. Take control of your health and embark on a transformative journey toward a balanced and vibrant life. Get your hands on this invaluable resource and start thriving today!
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