Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that impacts the central nervous system. In this disease, the immune system attacks the healthy tissues as it would attack a bacteria or a virus. This usually happens in the covering of the nerve tissue which impairs the electrical signal sending ability. This means that the body cannot perform some actions as it does not receive an impulse from the brain.

Apart from the medications, certain lifestyle changes for multiple sclerosis can help in living a wholesome life as much as possible. The changes can relieve the symptoms, keep the flare-ups away, and prevent them from getting worse. Your own outlook and ability to cope can help manage lifestyle changes for multiple sclerosis .

Mentioned below are a few lifestyle changes that you can incorporate to fight the disease”

Regular exercise

• Exercise helps manage depression and fights fatigue.
• It helps in balancing and the ability to walk.
• Stretching increases flexibility.
• Exercise builds muscle and improves metabolism.

Before you start exercising, it is important that you first discuss your plan with your doctor.

Healthy diet

• It is important to include healthy, unsaturated fats from foods such as nuts, fish, flaxseeds, cheese among others.
• Reduce bad fats found in processed foods such as burgers, fries, pizzas, etc.
• Include fruits, vegetables and wholesome grains.
• Limit your salt intake.
• Discuss with your doctor if you need to take vitamin D supplements.

Reduce stress
Stress worsens multiple sclerosis.Reducing stress is one of the critical lifestyle changes for multiple sclerosis.

• Exercise and practice meditation and yoga.
• Join support groups and go for massage therapy.
• Start doing things that make you happy.
• Manage your time. Don’t overburden your schedule.

Avoid heat

• Keep out of hot weather.
• Do not take a bath with hot water.
• Keep the air-conditioning on when it is hot and stuffy outside.
• Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.

Quit smoking
In addition to other health scares, smoking also aggravates the symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

• Take help from support groups and self-help groups available online.
• Start using nicotine replacement products to kick the habit.
• Talk to your doctor about your addiction.

Rest
Rest helps reduce stress and ease fatigue, helping the body to heal itself.

• Limit the use of caffeine. Try to not consume caffeine at least 6 hours before you go to bed.
• Keep your bedroom cool, quiet, and dark before you want to sleep. This sleep-inducing environment ensures that you get ample rest.
• Even if you’re not feeling sleepy at nap time, stay in bed and follow some breathing and relaxation techniques.

Avoid getting infections

• Keep away from sick people.
• Improve your immunity.
• Clean your hands regularly.
• Keep your house clean and dirt free.
• If you do have any allergy, see to it that you take measures to keep these allergens at bay.

Medicines are one way to manage multiple sclerosis. However, lifestyle changes for multiple sclerosis can help to manage your condition better.