What is the story about?
What's Happening?
A clinical trial conducted in Germany has found that fasting and ketogenic diets improve health markers in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) but do not affect the number of new brain lesions. The study involved 105 adults with RRMS who followed either a fasting diet, a ketogenic diet, or a standard healthy diet for 18 months. While the diets improved risk factors for heart and metabolic diseases, they did not reduce brain lesions, the trial's main goal.
Why It's Important?
The findings highlight the potential of dietary interventions as complementary strategies in managing RRMS, despite not affecting brain lesions. Improved health markers such as reduced body weight and blood pressure can contribute to better overall health outcomes for MS patients. The study suggests that while specific diets may not slow disease progression, they can enhance quality of life and reduce risk factors associated with worse disease outcomes.
What's Next?
Further research is needed to explore the long-term effects of dietary interventions on MS progression. Larger and more homogeneous study populations may provide definitive conclusions on the role of diet in MS management. Patients are encouraged to follow broad healthy eating guidelines while researchers continue to investigate the potential benefits of specific dietary strategies.
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