Patient self-management and empowerment for multiple sclerosis: The implications of dietary lifestyle management for primary care

Background: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition of increasing prevalence. Many people living with MS will trial various alternative therapies, including changed patterns of eating, to try to gain control over their condition. New clinical guidelines advise reducing the time between first clinical symptoms and treatment. It is the support of the healthcare team that can empower the person in their healthcare journey. Objective: The aim of this article is to provide insights into the role of diet as an element of lifestyle management of MS and describe the implications of diet as a first-line treatment for MS. Discussion: Many 'MS diets' have been promoted to persons diagnosed with MS, yet evidence-based advice is necessitated by an expressed need. Although health risks of short-term exploration of specific diets are not likely to cause concern, lifestyle management should be included in communication plans, with referrals to other healthcare professionals as appropriate.