There is some good news for people suffering from Multiple Sclerosis (MS). According to a recent study conducted by the Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, intake of fish oils containing omega-3 fatty acids partially helps in reducing the symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis.
The researchers of the study found that there was a 58 percent reduction in the MMP-9 levels secreted from the immune cells of those MS volunteers, who were given a daily dose of 9.6 grams of fish oil for a period of three months.
So, if you like eating fish go ahead and indulge in it without any guilt. Salmon, mackerel, herring, sardines, and anchovies are some of the cold water oily fish rich in omega -3 fatty acids.
For those who are not aware, MS is a persistent, inflammatory, and potentially incapacitating disease. It affects the central nervous system, that is, the nerves that include the brain and the spinal cord. Destruction of myelin and axons are some of the main characteristics of MS. It is because of this damage the nerve signals that control muscle coordination, vision, and sensation become slow or nonexistent.
Do you know as per a research presented in the 2007 annual conference of the American Academy of Neurology, women are more prone to MS? Experts are at a loss as to why this is so. In the U.S. alone approximately 300,000 people are affected with MS. It is between the ages of 20 and 40 most people experience their first symptoms of MS.
Multiple Sclerosis is a very unpredictable disease. For some people the symptoms may be very mild, while for others it can cause permanent disability. Some of the symptoms include severe fatigue, problems with balance, dizziness, numbness or weakness in one or more limbs, and lack of coordination.
Don’t give up if you have been diagnosed with MS. As with any chronic illness, it will not be easy to deal with the feelings of dejection and depression.
Apart from taking medications you can do a few simple things like join a support group to share your experiences, learn relaxation techniques, and keep in touch with your family and friends to improve your quality of life.
