A new diet to relieve some MS symptoms — and shed a few pounds

I’ve written in the past that I thought I could stand to lose a few pounds. Well, I finally put a little effort into it and have managed to do exactly that by making some changes to my diet.

I’d hoped that losing weight would reveal the washboard stomach of a much younger man, but I didn’t really think that would happen. The loose skin and stringy muscles of an older one are much more realistic, even if they are a little disappointing. It might seem like I won’t be getting the ideal body out of this, but since the goal of changing my diet was to ease my symptoms of multiple sclerosis (MS), perhaps I actually will.

I know changing my diet won’t cure me of MS, but there’s evidence that diet can affect autoimmune diseases. One way is by reducing inflammation, which appears to influence the development of MS, its progression, and worsening disability, and is also the target of many therapeutic interventions. That makes it more than worth it to explore any dietary measures that may reduce it.

Since making the change, my fatigue seems to be reduced. It may seem odd to have more energy even though I’ve eliminated sugars and most carbohydrates, but I definitely feel less sluggish and more energetic.

I also have much less bloating and am more regular. Not that long ago, I often felt full and uncomfortably bloated. Reducing how much sugar I eat and eliminating fermentable foods appear to have addressed that. By fermentable foods, I don’t mean things that are already fermented — such as yogurt, kimchi, or sauerkraut —  but things that ferment in my slow, low-motility digestive system. I never thought a diet would advise against any sort of vegetable, but for now, known fermentables are out.

Recommended Reading

August 21, 2025 News by Marisa Wexler, MS

Ketogenic diet shows promise for MS, but more research needed

What to leave in, what to leave out

Under the guidance of a nutritionist, my diet began with an elimination phase in which any possible inflammation triggers, such as processed foods or potential allergens, were removed. But now I’m gradually adding things back in one at a time to see if there’s a reaction. I’m only at the beginning of this phase, but the results have been telling so far.

I won’t endorse any specific diet because I’m not qualified to, and because I won’t know what mine consists of until I finish adding things back in. But I recommend consulting a professional like MS News Today‘s Susan Payrovi, MD. There really isn’t a better way to get an expert point of view and assistance.

It’s the beginning of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, so there’s no need to get ready for beach season. With any luck, though, I’ll be ready for the upcoming baggy sweater season. That’s probably more appropriate anyway because the most disturbing thing is that my baclofen pump, which used to just be a lump in my abdomen, is starting to resemble a hockey puck in a pillowcase when I lie on my side.

That unique-to-MS problem aside, I highly recommend working with an expert to create a specialized diet that can hopefully help to reduce symptoms and improve your life with this disease. And yes, it’s been nice to lose those few pounds.

Note: Multiple Sclerosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Multiple Sclerosis News Today or its parent company, Bionews, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to multiple sclerosis.