DOES SUGAR AFFECT MS?

Q I have well-controlled MS – will sugar make my symptoms worse?

A It’s possible – recent research by the American Academy of Neurology

shows drinking around 290 calories per day of sugar-sweetened beverages,

or the equivalent of two cans a day, is linked with more severe symptoms

and a higher level of disability, compared to people with MS who rarely drink

sugar-sweetened beverages. It’s only an observational study, and can’t prove

cause and effect, but, even so, I’d recommend trying to keep sugar intake

curbed. Other than this, there’s no solid evidence on which diet helps MS

apart from one that’s generally healthy – involving fibre, lean proteins and

essential fats. Some studies have suggested vitamin D (in oily fish) and biotin

(in peanuts) are helpful, and it’s worth considering these in supplement form.