The German pharmacists’ portal "Aponet.de" reported on a Swedish study that found links between the progression of multiple sclerosis (MS) and factors such as diet, body weight, and history of viral infections. The study revealed that MS tends to progress faster in individuals who previously suffered from glandular fever caused by certain herpes viruses, including the Epstein-Barr virus.
The findings also showed that eating fish and maintaining a normal body weight contribute to a milder course of the disease. People who had a healthy weight in their youth experienced slower progression later in life compared to those who were overweight or obese at a younger age. High fish consumption was also associated with better chances of a moderate disease course.
Multiple sclerosis is an inflammatory condition caused by damage to the protective myelin sheath of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. This damage disrupts communication within the nervous system, leading to physical, cognitive, and sometimes psychological symptoms. While the exact causes remain unclear, experts believe the disease may result from immune system dysfunction or failure of myelin-producing cells, with possible genetic and environmental factors such as infections. There is currently no cure, but available treatments aim to improve body functions after relapses and prevent new ones.
Sources - Agencies
