Less restrictive lower-fat diet benefits MS patients

A pilot clinical trial has revealed that adhering to a low-fat diet for three months can significantly alleviate fatigue in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). The study, conducted by researchers at the Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) School of Medicine, found that a diet restricting total fat intake to less than 20% of daily calories demonstrated good adherence and positive outcomes.

The study, “A low-fat diet improves fatigue in multiple sclerosis: Results from a randomized controlled trial,” was published in the Multiple Sclerosis Journal.

In contrast to strictly plant-based low-fat diets, this approach allowed participants to consume fat from lean animal protein sources such as chicken, turkey, lean fish, and egg whites. Dr. Vijayshree Yadav, the senior author of the study, emphasized that the positive effects on fatigue were achieved without the need for a fully vegan diet.

Fatigue is a common and debilitating symptom of MS, a progressive disease impacting the brain and spinal cord. Despite the lack of approved drugs for MS-related fatigue, dietary interventions have shown promise. Various diets, including Paleolithic, ketogenic, Mediterranean, and intermittent fasting, have produced mixed results.

The 16-week pilot study involved 39 MS patients, with the diet intervention focusing on reducing saturated fat and increasing carbohydrate and fiber intake. The diet plan restricted total fat to less than 20% of daily calories, with half coming from lean animal protein sources and the remaining half from plant-based fats like avocados, olives, and nuts. Processed foods were minimized, and participants were encouraged to prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein.

The study measured fatigue using the Modified Fatigue Impact Scale (MFIS) questionnaire, revealing a significant reduction in fatigue among those following the low-fat diet compared to the control group. Additionally, blood tests showed positive changes in cholesterol levels, with no safety concerns reported except for increased MS symptoms in two participants.

The researchers concluded that a larger multicenter study is being planned to validate the findings across a more diverse patient population. The results suggest that a low-fat diet could be a valuable intervention for managing fatigue in people with MS.