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 | What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)? MS is a disease of the central nervous system (CNS), which comprises the nerves of the brain and spinal cord. The disease is characterized by more than one - or multiple - lesions or scars (in French, "sclerosis") on the myelin sheath, a covering that protects nerves and aids nerve conduction in the CNS much like insulation protects an electrical cord. These scars are best seen on a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan. Prevalence and Symptoms. Approximately 350,000 Americans may have MS according to most estimates. The disease strikes women more often than men and typically is diagnosed between the ages of 20 and 40. Symptoms of MS can come and go with no definite pattern, and some may become permanent. Symptoms vary widely from one person to the next and may include any of the following: |
- numbness
- tingling, pins and needles, feelings of burning, cold, wetness, or other odd sensations (paresthesias)
- vision problems (for example, optic neuritis, double vision, or eye movement disorders)
- dizziness
- balance problems (ataxia)
- weakness, especially in the legs
- foot drop
- severe fatigue that may be brought on by minimal activity
- nerve pain (neuralgia), often in the facial area although it may occur in any part of the body
- bladder and/or bowel dysfunction
- vertigo
- L'hermitte's Sign (an electrical sensation down the spine that occurs upon suddenly bending the neck forward)
- girdle sensation, or the feeling that a tight band is wrapped around the waist or a limb (the MS "hug")
- spasticity (rigidity or stiffness of a limb)
- cognitive difficulties
- tremor
- speech and swallowing problems (dysphasia).
MS is categorized into four different disease courses:
- Relapsing-Remitting, or RRMS
- Secondary-Progressive, or SPMS
- Progressive-Relapsing, or PRMS
- Primary-Progressive, or PPMS.
Causes and the role of diet.
The exact cause of MS remains uncertain. It is currently thought to be an autoimmune disease, meaning that the body's own immune system is attacking the myelin sheath surrounding the CNS as if it were a foreign body. Other theories, such as the possible role of viruses, environment, genetics, etc., have also come into play.
Dr. Swank developed the unsaturated-fatty-acid hypothesis which is discussed in detail in chapter 9 of his book. In his studies, Dr. Swank showed that "a reciprocal relationship of fat and oil consumption existed in our MS patients on the low-fat diet. Patients did best when the fat intake was very low and oil relatively high, and poorest [when the converse was true]." Again, the basis for this hypothesis is detailed in Dr. Swank's book, but the rationale behind the diet remains with Dr. Swank's patients who have benefited from improved health and a reduction in MS exacerbations over the years.
ABC Drugs.
Conventional medical advice today strongly encourages the use of the so-called "ABC" drugs (Avonex, Betaseron or Copaxone) for patients with Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS). These drugs must be administered by injection and have been shown statistically to reduce the frequency and chances of having a relapse to some extent. They are not without problems, however. They are almost always recommended solely for RRMS patients and are usually ineffective once the disease becomes progressive. The interferons (Avonex and Betaseron) can cause flu-like symptoms, often for weeks or months, in susceptible patients. Copaxone must be injected daily and may cause itchy welts in the skin. These are just a few of the more common reactions.
The ABC drugs can cost upwards of 10,000 dollars per year, whereas diet changes are extremely economical and without adverse side effects. While each person must make his or her own decision based on informed medical advice and research, Dr. Swank's research and his success rate with patients provide strong evidence that the Swank MS Diet can be compared favorably to the ABC drugs. Many of Dr. Swank's patients have been stable for years on the diet, whereas they had progressed prior to its advent. Some of their stories may be found on this site.
Neither approach is a cure, of course, but the Swank MS Diet offers a soundly researched alternative or adjunct to drug therapy. Bear in mind that it takes a determined, concerted effort on the part of the patient with the cooperation of his or her doctor for best results. Each patient must determine for himself or herself the best direction to take. It is not a decision to be made lightly.
Sensible for the whole family.
In any case, the Swank MS Diet is a healthy food plan for everyone, not just patients with MS. People with a tendency toward heart problems, stroke, obesity or other medical conditions can benefit as well. The diet advocates a very low saturated fat intake but encourages the use of "good" fats, vegetables, vitamins and minerals. You have nothing to lose (with the possible exception of excess pounds) and perhaps much to gain by giving it a try, with or without drug therapy. You can read about the Swank MS Diet here.
More information on MS.
We have attempted to provide a brief overview of MS. If you require more indepth information, our Resources page has some excellent web links.
Consult with a physician before embarking on this or any other diet.
Every patient is different. Information on this site does not constitute medical advice or treatment.
This site does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship.
Every patient is different. Information on this site does not constitute medical advice or treatment.
This site does not constitute a doctor-patient relationship.
© 2002 by The Swank MS Foundation. All Rights Reserved.