If you have been diagnosed with MS and are new to Overcoming MS, visit our introductory page which will fill you in on how to get started with us and how we can help you with your MS.
We want to share how the Overcoming MS Program and charity can help you make lifestyle changes using a comprehensive and holistic approach.
Being diagnosed with MS can leave you uncertain about your future— but there is strong evidence to suggest that diet and lifestyle changes can improve MS outcomes.
The course of MS varies greatly from person to person, but without any lifestyle or medical intervention, MS symptoms typically progress over time.
Diagnosed with MS: Reasons to remain positive
While some of the statistics you read relating to MS can be intimidating, it is important to remember that these figures are often a worst-case scenario that can occur if nothing is done to manage the condition.
Evidence shows that lifestyle changes involving diet, sunlight and vitamin D, exercise, meditation and medication are likely to have a major impact on MS progression.
Positivity itself can have a powerful effect on your body and the immune system. This is one of the many reasons that we encourage people to practice mindfulness.
The evidence also shows that acting early — as soon as possible after diagnosis — yields the best results, but it is never too late to start making positive changes.
Improving quality of life
The Overcoming MS Program is a scientific set of guidelines, incorporating a number of lifestyle factors that have been shown to positively benefit people with MS, improving quality of life and symptoms.
Where to start
Read the Overcoming MS Program section on our website
This section will explain more about the changes you can make to your lifestyle to better manage your MS symptoms and its progression.
6: Prevention in Family Members
Explore real stories of people who are following the program
Often it's easier to feel inspired and motivated to make lifestyle changes when you read about how other people with MS overcame similar challenges. Every person following the Overcoming MS Program carries with them their own story of hope. Their experiences can be comforting and provide real insight into how you can lead your best life.
Order a copy of one of the Overcoming MS books
A great place to start is the most recent book, the 'Overcoming MS Handbook'. This is a very accessible read with chapters from a team of international experts explaining the steps in the Overcoming MS program.
Also, in his original book, the international bestseller 'Overcoming Multiple Sclerosis', Professor George Jelinek takes you through the scientific evidence behind each of the areas of the lifestyle-based approach and why it can make a big difference in slowing your MS progression. Professor Jelinek is also a person with MS, whose mother lived and died with MS, so this added personal experience — referred to throughout the book — adds a deeper level of understanding.
Join an OMS Circle — local and online groups of like-minded people following the Overcoming MS Program
Sometimes you just want to talk to someone who is going through the same thing. Our Overcoming MS Circles offer a great place to place to connect with other OMSers online or living near to you. You will find emotional and practical support from others who understand what living with MS is like. You will also find encouragement and reinforcement that you are doing the right thing — making positive lifestyle changes is easier if you do it together.
Reach out — we are here to help you. Please contact us so that we can support you on your journey
We love hearing from our community. If you have any questions we will be able to welcome you and point you in the right direction.
We are here for everyone with MS who wants to live a full and healthy life. If you or someone you care about has MS, sign up to our monthly updates for tips, recipes and resources helping you to live well with MS.
