Questioning MS Diets: What the Latest Clinical Studies Confirm

In the search for symptom relief and better disease management, individuals living with multiple sclerosis (MS) are increasingly exploring the impact of diet. From the Wahls Protocol to the Swank Diet, anecdotal stories often dominate social media and support forums—but what does actual clinical research say? Are there specific dietary patterns that can truly improve fatigue, reduce relapses, or slow progression?

This post examines the most recent clinical trials and studies on MS diets, separates fact from fiction, and helps readers understand which nutrition approaches are supported by real science in 2025.

Rethinking Diet in MS: Why It Matters

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic, immune-mediated disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the central nervous system, damaging myelin, the protective sheath around nerves. Symptoms vary widely and may include:

• Muscle weakness or spasticity
• Visual disturbances
• Cognitive impairment
• Fatigue and depression
• Difficulty with coordination and balance

While the exact cause of MS is still unclear, it’s widely accepted that environmental factors, genetics, and gut health all play a role. This has led researchers to examine whether nutrition can modify the inflammatory and immune pathways that drive the disease.

The Most Popular MS Diets—And What Studies Say

Several dietary strategies have gained traction among MS communities, but their efficacy varies. Here’s what the latest trials confirm:

1. The Swank Diet

Developed in the 1950s by Dr. Roy Swank, this low-saturated-fat diet focuses on:

• Less than 15g saturated fat daily
• Whole grains, fruits, vegetables
• Minimal red meat
• Supplementation with omega-3s and vitamin D

Latest Findings:

A 2023 randomized study in Neurology: Neuroimmunology & Neuroinflammation reported that patients on the Swank diet showed improved fatigue scores and reduced relapse rates compared to controls after 12 months. However, MRI findings showed no significant differences in lesion progression.

2. Wahls Protocol

A paleo-style, nutrient-dense plan emphasizing:

• Leafy greens and sulfur-rich vegetables
• Berries and colorful fruits
• Grass-fed meat and organ meats
• Elimination of gluten, dairy, and processed foods

Latest Findings:

A 2024 clinical trial at the University of Iowa compared the Wahls Protocol to a standard MS diet. The Wahls group showed significant improvements in fatigue, mobility, and quality of life scores, especially among those with progressive MS. However, long-term impact on disease progression is still under study.

3. Mediterranean Diet

Well-known for its cardiovascular benefits, this diet emphasizes:

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Nuts, seeds, legumes
• Fish and moderate poultry
• Abundant fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains and herbs

Latest Findings:

A 2025 observational study published in Multiple Sclerosis Journal found that higher adherence to the Mediterranean diet correlated with lower disability scores and better cognitive performance among MS patients. The diet’s anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects are suspected contributors.

4. Ketogenic Diet

High in fat and very low in carbs, this diet aims to shift the body into ketosis.

Latest Findings:

Early-stage trials suggest that ketogenic diets may reduce inflammatory cytokines and promote mitochondrial efficiency. A small 2024 pilot study in MS patients showed improved energy levels and gait stability, but concerns about long-term lipid health remain unresolved.

Gut Health: The Microbiome-Mediated Link

Emerging research has firmly established the connection between gut dysbiosis and MS. Patients with MS tend to have reduced microbial diversity and a higher presence of pro-inflammatory bacterial strains.

What Diet Can Do:

• Diets high in fiber and plant diversity encourage beneficial gut bacteria
• Fermented foods (like kefir, kimchi, or miso) may help reduce intestinal inflammation
• Avoiding ultra-processed foods helps prevent intestinal barrier disruption

In 2024, researchers at Mount Sinai published a study showing that gut-targeted diets improved not just bowel symptoms, but also immune regulation markers in MS patients.

Do Anti-Inflammatory Foods Help MS?

Inflammation is a key driver of MS progression, and many diets emphasize anti-inflammatory foods, such as:

• Turmeric (curcumin)
• Omega-3-rich fish (salmon, sardines)
• Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
• Flax and chia seeds
• Green tea

A 2025 review in Frontiers in Nutrition concluded that dietary interventions targeting systemic inflammation can help reduce fatigue and flare frequency—but caution that diet alone is not a replacement for disease-modifying therapy (DMT).

Foods and Ingredients to Avoid in MS

Across multiple studies, certain foods are consistently linked to worsened symptoms or inflammation in MS:

• Ultra-processed foods (high in trans fats, sugar, and preservatives)
• Refined carbohydrates and sugary drinks
• Saturated fats from processed meats
• Excessive sodium, which can aggravate immune dysfunction
• Alcohol, particularly in excess

In a 2024 cohort analysis, MS patients with the highest intake of ultra-processed foods were three times more likely to report severe fatigue and relapses than those with whole food–based diets.

Supplements: What’s Worth Considering?

While a food-first approach is always ideal, certain supplements have shown potential benefits:

• Vitamin D3: Low levels are linked to MS risk and severity. Optimal blood levels may reduce relapses.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: Especially EPA and DHA for neuroprotection and anti-inflammatory action.
• B-complex vitamins: Particularly B12, as deficiencies are common in MS.
• Probiotics: May help rebalance the gut microbiome.
• Lipoic acid: A powerful antioxidant shown to reduce brain atrophy in some small trials.

Always consult your neurologist before starting supplements, especially if you’re on a disease-modifying treatment.

Personalized Nutrition: The Future of MS Diets

One major takeaway from current research is that no single diet works for everyone with MS. Personalized nutrition—based on genetic makeup, microbiome composition, comorbidities, and patient preference—is the emerging standard.

Personalized Diet Tools Gaining Ground:

• Microbiome testing kits with tailored prebiotic and probiotic suggestions
• Digital diet tracking apps that correlate symptoms with foods
• Telehealth dietitian programs specializing in MS and autoimmune conditions

The goal is no longer just avoiding certain foods—it’s finding a sustainable, anti-inflammatory pattern that complements medical care.

Putting It All Together: Building a Realistic MS Diet Plan

To make the research actionable:

• Start with a food diary to track symptoms and reactions
• Gradually increase plant diversity and fiber intake
• Incorporate omega-3-rich meals at least twice per week
• Limit processed foods, excess sugar, and high sodium
• Add fermented foods to support gut health
• Work with a registered dietitian familiar with autoimmune care

Diet alone may not “cure” MS, but it can meaningfully improve day-to-day life by reducing inflammation, supporting brain function, and enhancing energy.

FAQs

Can diet cure multiple sclerosis?

No, diet cannot cure MS. However, research shows it can reduce symptom severity, inflammation, and flare-ups when used alongside medical treatment.

Is the Wahls Protocol safe for everyone?

It may not be appropriate for everyone, especially those with kidney issues or food allergies. Always consult a medical professional before making dietary changes.

Do I need to eliminate gluten and dairy with MS?

Not necessarily. Some patients report improvement after elimination, but scientific evidence is mixed. Consider an elimination diet only with guidance.

Are supplements necessary for MS patients?

Not always. If dietary intake is sufficient, you may not need supplements. But many people with MS benefit from vitamin D, B12, omega-3s, and probiotics.

How do I know which diet is right for me?

Track your symptoms and try evidence-based patterns (like the Mediterranean diet) under supervision. Personalized guidance from a registered dietitian is best.