Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune neurological disease in which the immune system attacks the myelin sheath of nerve fibers in the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). Damage to myelin slows down or blocks nerve signals, leading to a wide range of neurological symptoms. MS is unpredictable and is a serious disease that can cause disability in younger adults.
The most common symptoms of multiple sclerosis are:
- Weakness or numbness in the extremities (arms and/or legs), often unilaterally
- Loss of coordination, instability when walking, dizziness
- Tingling, burning, or pain along nerve pathways
- Fatigue, which can be pronounced and insurmountable
- Vision problems (double vision, blurred vision, eye pain – optic neuritis)
- Speech, memory, or mood disorders in some cases
The disease usually has phases of exacerbation (relapses) and improvement (remissions), but over time there may be progressive deterioration. The exact cause of MS is unknown; a combination of genetic factors and environmental triggers (viral infections, vitamin D deficiency, smoking) is assumed. At its core is chronic inflammation in the central nervous system and an autoimmune reaction where lymphocytes attack myelin. This inflammatory reaction also produces oxidative stress that damages neurons. Immune imbalance is obvious – the body does not recognize its own nerve structures and attacks them as foreign tissue.
Natural support for the body
Nutrition and dietary supplements can affect the course of multiple sclerosis, or at least alleviate symptoms and improve the patient's well-being. Spelt is extremely nutritious and can help with nutrient deficiencies sometimes seen in people with MS (e.g., folic acid, vitamin B6, selenium). B complex vitamins present in spelt support nerves and can contribute to better functioning of the nervous system – especially vitamins B1 (thiamine) and B6, which are essential for the transmission of nerve impulses.
Antioxidants from spelt (such as vitamin E and selenium) protect neurons and myelin from oxidative damage. This is important because oxidative stress is considered one of the factors in MS progression, leading to degeneration of nerve fibers. The anti-inflammatory effect of nutrients from spelt can also be beneficial: reducing inflammation can potentially reduce the frequency or intensity of relapses. Spelt is also rich in magnesium, which can help with muscle cramps and spasms that accompany multiple sclerosis, and magnesium also contributes to the quality of sleep and reduction of fatigue.
One should not forget detoxification – although MS is not caused by toxins, a clean organism functions more easily. Lyophilized green spelt juice rich in chlorophyll supports the work of the liver and kidneys in the elimination of harmful substances, which can benefit the general health of the patient. By strengthening general immunity and providing a wide range of nutrients, spelt helps the body maintain balance and better cope with autoimmune attacks on the nervous system.