MS: A diagnosis, not a destiny

It might sound counterintuitive, but the right kind of exercise can actually reduce MS-related fatigue.* Research shows that moderate physical activity is linked to improvements in fatigue, mood and brain health, as well as maintaining or improving physical function. It doesn’t need to be intense – and it can be adapted to suit different abilities and stages of MS.

*Yang et al., “Effects of exercise on fatigue and quality of life in multiple sclerosis: a network meta-analysis and systematic review,” Journal of Neurology (2025).

Vitamin D plays an important role in MS. Large real-world studies have found that higher vitamin D blood levels are associated with a lower risk of relapse and reduced disease activity.* While studies don’t all agree – and vitamin D is not a cure – maintaining healthy vitamin D levels through testing, safe sunlight exposure and supplementation where appropriate is widely recommended alongside medical care.

*Vachova et al. “From Sunlight to MS Fight: Impact of Vitamin D Levels on Multiple Sclerosis Activity.” Neurological Sciences (2025).

There is no single “perfect” diet for people living with MS. However, research shows that overall nutritional quality matters, and that higher diet quality is associated with lower disability levels, reduced symptom burden and better quality of life. In 2023, an editorial in Neurology concluded that there is now sufficient evidence to recommend a healthy diet as an adjunct intervention in MS care.*

The Overcoming MS approach reflects these principles, with an emphasis on plant-based foods, omega-3 fats and limiting saturated fat.

*Spain RI et al. “The role of diet in multiple sclerosis: Food for thought.” Neurology (2023).

Research suggests that stress is associated with changes in symptoms and may influence disease activity in MS. Studies have found links between higher stress levels and increased relapse risk, as well as new brain lesions.*

While stress cannot be eliminated entirely, approaches such as mindfulness and stress-management techniques have been shown to support mental wellbeing and quality of life for people living with MS.

*Polick CS et al. “Associations among stressors across the lifespan, disability, and relapses in adults with multiple sclerosis.” Brain and Behavior (2023).

A growing body of research suggests the gut microbiome plays a role in regulating immune function and inflammation, both central to MS. Differences in gut bacteria have been observed between people with MS and those without the condition.*

Supporting gut health through overall diet quality, including fibre-rich plant foods and minimally processed options, may be beneficial. This sits alongside medical treatment, not instead of it.

*Parodi B & Kerlero de Rosbo N. “The Gut-Brain Axis in Multiple Sclerosis: Is Its Dysfunction a Pathological Trigger or a Consequence of the Disease?” Frontiers in Immunology (2021).

There’s no “right time” to start. Research shows that healthy lifestyle changes can support wellbeing, symptom management and overall health at different stages of MS. Even small, gradual changes can be meaningful – and they can be introduced at your own pace, alongside medical care.