Last Updated on December 5, 2023 by Cathy
March is MS awareness month to raise public awareness of multiple sclerosis (MS). MS is a chronic neurological disease that affects the brain, optic nerves, and spinal cord. Throughout March, organizations around the world will bring awareness and raise money to end this disease. The money goes towards research and support for people living with MS and their families.
When I was first diagnosed with MS I didn’t tell anyone except family and close friends. I worried I’d get “laid off” from my job or treated differently. I was the same person before the disease, now I just had to deal with major health issues. And, it wasn’t always easy hiding it. Like when my leg went numb and weak, I blamed it on back pain. My back really was hurting probably from dragging my leg around. But that was a long time ago (before the internet) and now there are many support groups even online.
It’s not easy living with MS, you never know if you’ll wake up tomorrow numb, weak, unable to walk, or blind. But, it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom either. The one thing I can’t stand is when someone thinks I’m going to die tomorrow. Many years ago when I tried to get life insurance they wouldn’t give it to me. They said I probably wouldn’t live another ten years. Wow, the ignorance of some people. I’ve been living with MS for decades, since I was fifteen years old and I’m still walking.
Is there a cure for MS?
There is no cure for MS. In a way that’s correct but it is possible to get MS into remission and live a healthy life. You can even reverse some or all the damage caused by MS. MS is different for everyone but it’s not a fatal disease. According to the National MS Society, most people with MS will live an average lifespan. Most people with MS die from other causes like heart disease or cancer, just like everyone else.
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.)
Genetics
MS isn’t considered a genetic disease but it can run in families. If one person has MS the odds go up for siblings and children. Fortunately, the field of genetics is advancing quickly. They’ve discovered over 200 genes that increase the risk of developing MS. One variant is the HLA-DRB1 group of genes that regulate the immune system.
A few years ago I had my DNA tested through 23andMe. It was an easy test you just spit it into a tube and mail it in and wait for the results. No one in my family has MS when I discovered I had a genetic higher risk for MS it shocked me. There it was, in print, a three times higher risk (see the image below). You can read about my experience here: DNA Test for Multiple Sclerosis.
Even though there is a higher risk for MS, it doesn’t guarantee a person will get the disease. Researchers believe genes do put a person at a higher risk for MS. But it’s environmental factors that cause the disease. The unhealthier our environment, the unhealthier we are.
Your genetics load the gun.
Your lifestyle pulls the trigger.
– Mehmet Oz
Research
Researchers discovered people with MS have higher levels of certain bacteria which triggers inflammation. They also have lower levels of one certain bacteria that fights inflammation. There are current studies to see if probiotics may be a future treatment for people living with MS.
Studies have also linked low vitamin D-3 levels to play a huge role in MS. The further away a person lives from the equator the higher the risks of developing MS. Since the campaign of skin cancer kicked in people have been slathering on the sunscreen. Creating more vitamin D deficiencies the rates of MS diagnosis have gone up.
Another study suggested having a higher level of vitamin D-3 lowers the risks of MS. It also slows the progression and severity of symptoms. It’s very important to get tested and know where your level is. Don’t except a “normal” result from your doctor, get the actual number – it should be between 60-80 ng/mL. For MS patients it’s even safe to have levels up to 100 ng/mL. You can get a vitamin D 25-hydroxy test without a doctor’s prescription online at Walk-In-Lab then visit a local lab.
How to Stop The Progression
MS affects the central nervous system which affects every part of the body. People with MS can live a long life but it’s the quality of life that matters. People living with MS can experience chronic fatigue, bladder issues, or balance issues.
Sadly, most neurologist only pushes their pharmaceutical drugs on patients. These drugs can cause severe side effects from depression to death. While I was taking one of these drugs my MS attacks were getting stronger and closer. I knew there had to be something better and that’s when I discovered I could use food as my medicine. Why don’t doctors let patients be aware of other options than just drugs? – MS Awareness
MS is from chronic inflammation it only makes sense to remove the inflammation. Once the inflammation is gone your body will start to heal. The hard part is figuring out what caused the inflammation in the first place. Usually, it’s from a poor diet of processed foods, refined sugar, and stress.
Diet
Our typical American diet consists of many unhealthy foods. Such as processed foods, hidden sugars, genetically modified foods (GMO), and unhealthy fats. With very little fish, healthy fats, fruits, and vegetables. This diet causes depression, obesity, heart disease, cancer, and autoimmune diseases.
Avoid foods that cause sensitivities like gluten, dairy, and legumes (peanut butter, soy). Include foods that are nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory, omega-3’s, and quality fats. Buy organic as much as possible to avoid pesticides, growth hormones, and antibiotics.
Foods to include:
- Vegetables
- Fruit
- Wild-caught fish
- Grass-fed beef
- Pasture-raised poultry
- Healthy fats (avocado, coconut, olive oil, etc.)
MS Awareness
If you aren’t seeing results, I highly recommend seeing a functional medicine practitioner. They look at the root cause and not just the symptoms. I started removing a yeast overgrowth then I contacted a functional medical doctor. Within a month my old MS symptoms started to reverse.
It is possible to stop the progression and reverse symptoms of MS. Don’t let doctors or anyone tell you otherwise. Eat healthy, remember your vitamin D, learn to manage stress, and get plenty of sleep. You need to stay positive and believe you can do this!
You May Also Like To Read:
DNA Test for Multiple Sclerosis
MS and Vitamin D
The Ultimate Guide to Surviving & Thriving with MS
Unlock the key to a vibrant life with multiple sclerosis by subscribing to my newsletter and gaining exclusive access to ‘The Ultimate Guide to Surviving & Thriving with MS.’ It’s packed with valuable information on natural management strategies and clean health lifestyle practices that you can start today.
