Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system (CNS).  Inappropriate inflammation of your CNS occurs, and it is thought that a type of white blood cells called T cells causes harm to the myelin sheaths of your nerves. Myelin sheaths provide a protective coating around your nerves.

The exact reason for the development of MS is not known. Gut Health and Multiple Sclerosis are linked. There are links to gut imbalance and the development and progression of MS. It seems that gut dysbiosis or imbalance may lead to dysfunction of your immune cells such as your B and T cells. Also, the cells of the central nervous system make the myelin sheaths and maintain a healthy and balanced state for the nerves cells called Glia cells.

Everyone’s gut microbiome is different and what is considered an optimal type and variety of microbes can vary between individuals. Therefore, a single probiotic strain from a supplement is not recommended to reduce your risk of developing MS. A whole diet approach that includes two daily sources of probiotic-rich foods and beverages and a variety of different plant foods is far superior to the benefit of your health. The sum of health benefits of whole foods far outweighs what one single probiotic supplement could possibly provide to your body.

Most people are not meeting their daily recommended fibre needs. This is a good sign that most people are not including enough fibre rich foods from plant sources. One way you can boost your fibre is through enjoying a delicious pouch of South Australian Gourmet Food Company Fruit Custard with Added Fibre. Each pouch gives your body 10.9g of dietary fibre.

Fibre is vital to keep your gut functioning optimally as well as feeding the good bacteria in your gut to stay healthy and protect your body. 70% of your immune system is in your gut and having a healthy gut microbiome promotes an optimal immune system function and reduces chronic-low-grade inflammation which can lead to many diseases.

Take home message: While the exact reasons for the development of MS is unknown, there appears to be a link between gut health and Multiple Sclerosis.  Make sure that your diet is supporting a healthy gut microbiome which in turn will help to protect your CNS from disease.

Reference:

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