{"title":"An Integrative Approach for  Multiple Sclerosis (MS)\u003cbr\u003e Learning What You Can Do","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat is MS?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Multiple Sclerosis Society describes MS as a chronic, often disabling disease that attacks the central nervous system, which is made up of the brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves. The disease can follow different patterns, with unpredictable progress, severity, and symptoms that vary from person to person. Symptoms may be mild, such as numbness in the limbs, or severe, such as paralysis or loss of vision.   MS is believed to be an autoimmune system disease, caused by the body’s defense system attacking its own myelin, the fatty substance that surrounds and protects nerve fibers in the central nervous system. The damaged myelin forms scar tissue (sclerosis), which gives the disease its name, and the nerve fibers themselves can also be damaged. When any part of the myelin sheath or nerve fiber is damaged or destroyed, nerve impulses traveling to and from the brain and spinal cord are distorted or interrupted, producing the various symptoms that can occur.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMS is believed to be an autoimmune system disease, caused by the body’s defense system attacking its own myelin, the fatty substance that surrounds and protects nerve fibers in the central nervous system. The damaged myelin forms scar tissue (sclerosis), which gives the disease its name, and the nerve fibers themselves can also be damaged. When any part of the myelin sheath or nerve fiber is damaged or destroyed, nerve impulses traveling to and from the brain and spinal cord are distorted or interrupted, producing the various symptoms that can occur.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWho Gets MS?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e400,000 cases are diagnosed in the U.S. annually (200 each week)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWomen are 2-3 times more likely to contract MS than men\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eYour risk increases if you have a relative with MS\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMS is more common farther away from the equator, which suggests a possible connection to Vitamin D deficiency\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePossible Links \/ MS Triggers\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eToxins — pesticides\/solvents\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeavy metal load (for example, mercury in dental fillings)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExposure to domesticated animals\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNutrition — a high-animal-fat diet is suspect\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFood allergies and sensitivities (dairy, gluten, etc.)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGI function, including poor digestion and assimilation of nutrients, and inadequate stomach acid and pepsin production\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDysbiosis (bacterial imbalance)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGeographic location, possibly linked to Vitamin D deficiency; a greater incidence of MS is found in higher latitudes, and lower incidence in tropical and coastal populations who eat lots of fish\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eViral infections (Epstein Barr virus)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEmotional stress\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eConventional Treatment Options\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eModifying the Disease Course\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eCertain FDA approved drugs (Betaseron®, Avonex®, and Copaxone®) can reduce disease activity and progression for many individuals with relapsing forms of MS, including those with secondary progressive disease who continue to have relapses. To reduce the severity of attacks, oral or intravenous corticosteroids are given. (Be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about the possible side effects of these drugs.) Antibiotic therapy along with interferon may help combat MS by slowing down enzymes that attack nerve cells, thereby protecting the brain and supporting the immune system.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eManaging the symptoms\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSymptoms vary greatly from person to person, and even from time to time in the same individual. While symptoms can range from mild to severe, most can be successfully managed with strategies that include medication, self-care techniques, assistive devices, and rehabilitation with a physical or occupation therapist, speech\/language pathologist, or cognitive remediation specialist, among others.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAfter receiving a clinical diagnosis of MS, it is important to work with a healthcare practitioner to determine your unique needs and to create a plan specific for you.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNutritional Testing\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe tests detailed below are specialized tools that can provide further insight into your nutrient status by disclosing food and chemical intolerances that may be contributing to your MS.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUncovering Food Allergies and Sensitivities\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMany people with MS have hidden allergies or sensitivities to certain foods, which can aggravate the body and exacerbate or trigger MS symptoms. Food allergies and sensitivities can damage intestinal mucosa, cause malabsorption of nutrients, lead to abnormal immune reactions, cause leaky membranes, and promote unhealthy yeast growth (Candida albicans). When individuals eliminate “problem foods” from their diets, their symptoms often improve.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTesting methods for food allergies and sensitivities include:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eALCAT (www.alcat.com) — This blood test is the preferred method for identifying food sensitivities. ALCAT can test for over 300 foods, food additives, food colorings, environmental chemicals and molds.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eELISA — This test indicates the presence of IgG antibodies in patients in response to numerous food allergens. It is considered to be a convenient and easy way to diagnose food allergies, however, some practitioners question its theory and validity. It is also costly and the reliability of results may vary, depending on the lab.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIdentifying Nutrient Status\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSpectracell Analysis (www.spectracell.com) — This testing method measures levels of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other essential micronutrients in your white blood cells. The results can uncover deficiencies that standard blood serum tests may miss — deficiencies that can impair health and contribute to disease progression.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNutrition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStudies have shown that MS patients do better on a diet low in saturated fat and high in essential fatty acids, since too much saturated fat apparently weakens blood vessel walls and breaks down the blood\/brain barrier. Essential fatty acids stabilize the nerve sheath and help to strengthen blood vessel walls.3 Nutritionists believe that nutrition (diet and supplements) provides the best results in controlling MS.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Swank Low-Fat Anti-Inflammatory Diet\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDr. Roy Swank's research on 144 patients was published on July 7, 1990 in The Lancet (the preeminent English medical journal). The results of this very significant study showed that those who followed a specialized diet did not demonstrate any significant deterioration of their condition over a 34-year period. Conversely, those who did not follow the diet deteriorated significantly over the same period.4 More recent studies have shown that after 44 years, patients who continued to follow this diet still had not shown any significant deterioration of their condition.5\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Swank Diet is a low-fat diet, supplemented with fish oil to provide additional omega 3 fatty acids. The outline for this diet is shown below, but we suggest referring to\u003cbr\u003eDr. Swank’s \u003cstrong\u003eMultiple Sclerosis Diet Book\u003c\/strong\u003e for his complete diet and recommendations.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. No red meat for the first year. This includes dark meat of chicken and turkey.\u003cbr\u003e2. After the first year, 3 ounces of red meat is allowed once a week. Red meat is discouraged except for special occasions.\u003cbr\u003e3. Dairy products containing one percent butterfat or more are excluded. (Exceptions are listed in Dr. Swank’s book.)\u003cbr\u003e4. All processed foods containing saturated fat are eliminated.\u003cbr\u003e5. Saturated fat intake is not to exceed 15 grams per day.\u003cbr\u003e6. Unsaturated fat intake (oils) should be kept between 20 and 50 grams per day.\u003cbr\u003e7. One teaspoon or 4 capsules of cod-liver oil and one multiple vitamin\/mineral supplement is recommended.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Swank anti-inflammatory diet may help MS patients in the following ways:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. The overall composition of the diet should help lower cholesterol and reduce platelet stickiness. Polyunsaturated oils appear to help prevent MS deterioration, while cod liver oil inhibits autoimmunity in experimental animals. Keeping “bad” fatty acids (saturates, trans fats) to a minimum reduces their interference with “good” fatty acids, including the omega-6 GLA (gamma- linolenic acid) and the omega-3s ALA, EPA, and DHA (eicosapentaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid, respectively).\u003cbr\u003e2. This diet should “down regulate” autoimmunity in the MS patient and therefore reduce inflammation. Chronic or severe inflammation breaks down normal tissues, such as myelin, and several studies have found MS patients to have elevated levels of free radical damage.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Best Bet Diet by Ashton F. Embry\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDr. Ashton F. Embry, PhD, is the scientist behind the research and subsequent creation of The Best Bet Diet, and the founder of DIRECT-MS (DIet REsearch into the Cause and Treatment of Multiple Sclerosis, at www.direct-ms.org).\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAccording to Dr. Embry, there are two main strategies for halting the immune reactions which result in an attack on central nervous system tissue. These two strategies are:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. Healing a leaky gut to slow down and ideally prevent intact food proteins from entering circulation; and\u003cbr\u003e2. Avoid foods that contain proteins that can potentially mimic self-proteins in the central nervous system. According to Dr. Embry, these foods include all dairy products, grains, legumes (e.g. beans), eggs and yeast. The most problematic grains are those that contain gluten such as wheat, rye, barley and oats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe key elements of \u003cstrong\u003eThe Best Bet Diet\u003c\/strong\u003e for MS are:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. Avoid or restrict foods that could trigger auto-immunity (i.e. grains, dairy, gluten, legumes, refined sugar, eggs and yeast).\u003cbr\u003e2. Avoid all allergenic foods, which are identified by skin, ALCAT and ELISA tests.\u003cbr\u003e3. Avoid all red meat and margarine.\u003cbr\u003e4. Eat fish and skinless breast of chicken and turkey for protein, fruits and vegetables for carbohydrates, and micro-nutrients and extra virgin olive oil and unrefined sunflower oil for fats.\u003cbr\u003e5. Take as many of the recommended supplements as your budget allows.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Supplement Recommendations\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeveral dietary supplements (detailed below) have been shown to be beneficial for individuals with MS. We have referenced studies that scientifically validate their use. Specific supplement recommendations and dosage levels should be determined on a case-by-case basis. Nutritional therapy is a very effective adjunct to conventional treatment and can be helpful in alleviating the symptoms of MS or altering the natural course of the disease.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMultivitamin \/ Multimineral Supplements\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA high-quality multivitamin \/ multimineral supplement is recommended to fill nutritional gaps in the diet, support the body’s increased nutrient needs (as a result of having a chronic illness), address nutrient deficiencies, and support the biochemical conversion of essential fatty acids.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\u003cem\u003eRecommended: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/myvillanegreen.com\/products\/multi-two-1\"\u003ePathway MULTI TWO\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOmega 3 Fatty Acids:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eALA, EPA \u0026amp; DHA\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOmega-3 fatty acids are essential to the human body because every cell needs these vital fatty acids to function properly. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) from flax and eicosapentanoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from algae and cold- water fish (salmon, mackerel, herring, and sardines) have anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to be of benefit in auto-immune conditions. From red cell analysis, it was suggested MS patients might have low systemic DHA and EPA content.6 A small clinical trial (12 patients) with no control patient group suggested that omega-3 fatty acid supplements from fish oil might reduce MS exacerbations.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecommended: Pathway \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/myvillanegreen.com\/products\/super-omega-3-ec\"\u003eSUPER OMEGA-3\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOmega 6 Fatty Acids:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLA \u0026amp; GLA\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLinoleic Acid (LA)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eResearch has shown that patients with MS have low levels of the omega-6 essential fatty acid, linoleic acid (LA). When given LA at 20 grams per day, it was shown to reduce symptoms and the severity and duration of relapses, especially in patients with early disease and minimal disability.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGamma-Linoleic Acid (GLA)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eGamma-linoleic acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in evening primrose, borage, and black currant seeds, and it has significant anti-inflammatory properties. The body converts LA to GLA. However, many individuals have difficulty making this conversion and are deficient in this fatty acid. GLA produces beneficial hormone-like compounds called prostaglandins. Prostaglandins regulate inflammation, pain, blood pressure, fluid balance, and blood clotting. Zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin B6 aid in the conversion of GLA to prostaglandin E1 (PGE1), which is responsible for many health benefits in the body.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eMS patients often have cold hands and feet, usually an indication of impaired peripheral blood flow. New Zealand researchers have concluded that GLA from evening primrose oil improves peripheral blood flow characteristics as well as hand-grip strength.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecommended: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/myvillanegreen.com\/products\/evening-primrose-oil-1300-mg\"\u003ePathway EVENING PRIMROSE OIL\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAntioxidants\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAntioxidants protect the body against free radical damage. They are an important supplement when you’re taking increased amounts of essential fatty acids because antioxidants protect these fragile oils from oxidation. Individuals with MS have been shown to be lacking sufficient antioxidants.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecommended: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/myvillanegreen.com\/products\/quercetin-plus\"\u003ePATHWAY QUERCETIN PLUS\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVitamin C, Vitamin E, and Beta Carotene\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA study has shown that the levels of these three antioxidant vitamins were significantly lower in MS patients compared to controls. These nutrients provide important free radical protection and help to prevent the oxidation of essential fatty acids.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecommended: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/myvillanegreen.com\/products\/vitamin-c-500-mg-with-rose-hips\"\u003ePathway VITAMIN C with ROSE HIPS\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecommended: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/myvillanegreen.com\/products\/perfect-e\"\u003ePathway PERFECT E\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecommended: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/myvillanegreen.com\/products\/vision-support-1\"\u003ePathway VISION SUPPORT\u003c\/a\u003e for Beta Carotene\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVitamin D\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePeople with higher exposure to sunlight have a lower risk of MS, and at least one study has demonstrated that early sun avoidance seems to precede the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). This protective effect is independent of genetic susceptibility to MS.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnother study showed an inverse relationship between vitamin D (“the sunshine vitamin”) supplementation and risk of MS. They found a 41% risk reduction in women taking 400 IU\/day compared to women taking no supplemental vitamin D.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAnd in a very recent study of high-dose vitamin D supplementation in 12 MS patients taking D3, four patients had complete resolution of gadolinium-enhancing lesions, and eight patients experienced a decline in the number of lesions compared to their baselines.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRecommended: \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/myvillanegreen.com\/products\/vitamin-d-3-2000-iu\"\u003ePathway VITAMIN D\u003c\/a\u003e (1000 IU \/ 2000 IU)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePhysical Therapies \/ Exercise\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRehabilitation is an important component of comprehensive, quality health care for people with MS, at all stages of the disease. Benefits include improved circulation and oxygenation, muscle strengthening, reduction in stiffness and muscle spasm, enhanced energy, stress reduction, and lifting the spirit. Be sure to discuss these therapies with your primary care physician to see what suits your needs best.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRehabilitation programs include:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePhysical therapy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOccupational therapy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTherapy for speech and swallowing problems\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCognitive rehabilitation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eVocational rehabilitation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExercise (yoga, walking, swimming, dancing, classes, rebounder).\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComplementary Therapies\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHolistic therapies such as reflexology, acupuncture, massage, chiropractic care, meditation, shiatsu, hydrotherapy, cranial sacral therapy, Alexander technique, and individuals with MS by supporting the body, mind, and spirit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePossible New MS Therapy\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, found that the drug alemtuzumab (brand name Campath), which was originally developed to fight leukemia, may stop multiple sclerosis in its early stages and restore lost function to patients. While the drug is still in clinical trials and may not be available for several years, researchers are hopeful that this drug will offer a promising new treatment option for patients with relapsing and remitting multiple sclerosis.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eReferences\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e1.Kidd PM. Multiple sclerosis, an autoimmune inflammatory disease: prospects for its integrative management. \u003cem\u003eAltern Med Rev.\u003c\/em\u003e 2001 Dec;6(6):540-66.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2. Minagar A, Alexander JS, Schwendimann RN, Kelley RE, Gonzalez-Toledo E, Jimenez JJ, Mauro L, Jy W, Smith SJ. Combination therapy with interferon beta-1a and doxycycline in multiple sclerosis: an open-label trial. \u003cem\u003eArch Neurol\u003c\/em\u003e. 2008 Feb;65(2):199-204. Epub 2007 Dec 10.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e3. McCarty MF. Upregulation of lymphocyte apoptosis as a strategy for preventing and treating autoimmune disorders: a role for whole-food vegan diets, fish oil and dopamine agonists. \u003cem\u003eMed Hypotheses\u003c\/em\u003e. 2001 Aug;57(2):258-75.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e4. Swank RL. Multiple sclerosis: fat-oil relationship. \u003cem\u003eNutrition\u003c\/em\u003e. 1991 Sep-Oct;7(5):368-76.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e5. Swank RL, Dugan BB. Effect of low saturated fat diet in early and late cases of multiple sclerosis. Lancet. 1990 Jul 7;336(8706):37-9.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOmega 3\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e6. Cunnane SC, Ho SY. Essential fatty acid and lipid profiles in plasma and erythrocytes in patients with multiple sclerosis. \u003cem\u003eAm J Clin Nutr\u003c\/em\u003e 1989;50:801-806.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e7. Cendrowski W. Multiple sclerosis and MaxEPA. \u003cem\u003eBr J Clin Practice\u003c\/em\u003e 1986;40:365-367.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLinoleic Acid \/ Gamma-Linoleic Acid\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e8. Dworkin RH, Bates D, Millar JHD, et al. Linoleic acid and multiple sclerosis: a reanalysis of three double-blind trials. \u003cem\u003eNeurology\u003c\/em\u003e 1984;34:1441-1445.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e9. Simpson LO, Shand BI, Olds RJ. Dietary supplementation with Efamol and multiple sclerosis. \u003cem\u003eNew Zealand Med J\u003c\/em\u003e 1985;98:1053-1054.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVitamin C, Vitamin E, and Beta Carotene\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e10. Besler HT, Comoğlu S, Okçu Z. Serum levels of antioxidant vitamins and lipid peroxidation in multiple sclerosis. \u003cem\u003eNutr Neurosci.\u003c\/em\u003e 2002 Jun;5(3):215-20.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eVitamin D\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e11. Islam T, Gauderman WJ, Cozen W, Mack TM. Childhood sun exposure influences risk of multiple sclerosis in monozygotic twins. \u003cem\u003eNeurology\u003c\/em\u003e. 2007 Jul 24;69(4):381-8.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e12. Munger KL, Levin LI, Hollis BW, et al. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels and risk of multiple sclerosis. \u003cem\u003eJAMA\u003c\/em\u003e 2006;296:2832-2838.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e13. Munger KL, Zhang SM, O'Reilly E, et al. Vitamin D intake and incidence of multiple sclerosis. \u003cem\u003eNeurology\u003c\/em\u003e 2004;62:60-65.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e14. Kimball SM, Ursell MR, O'Connor P, Vieth R. Safety of vitamin D3 in adults with multiple sclerosis. \u003cem\u003eAm J Clin Nutr\u003c\/em\u003e 2007;86:645-651.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecommended Reading:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003eSwank, Roy Laver and Barbara Brewer Dugan. \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eThe Multiple Sclerosis Diet Book.\u003c\/span\u003e New York: Doubleday, 1987.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGraham, Judy. \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eMultiple Sclerosis – A Self-Help Guide to Its Management.\u003c\/span\u003e Vermont: Healing Arts Press, 1989.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSawyer, Ann D and Judith E Bachrach. \u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eThe MS Recovery Diet.\u003c\/span\u003e New York: Avery Press, 2007.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEsmonde L, Long, AF. Complementary therapy use by persons with multiple sclerosis: benefits and research priorities. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2008 Aug;14(3):176-84. Epub 2008 May\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNational MS Society: \u003ca href=\"www.nmss.org\" target=\"_blank\"\u003ewww.nmss.org\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCAMMS223 Trial Investigators, Coles AJ, Compston DA, Selmaj KW, Lake SL, Moran S, Margolin DH, Norris K, Tandon PK. Alemtuzumab vs. Interferon beta-1a in early multiple sclerosis. N Engl J Med. 2008 Oct 23;359(17):1786-801.\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e* * *\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\" data-mce-style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eThese statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your physician if you have any question regarding a medical condition.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"vitamin-c-500-mg-with-rose-hips","title":"Vitamin C 500 Mg With Rose Hips","description":"\u003cp class=\"bodycopy1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eWith Rose Hips\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVitamin C (ascorbic acid) is an important antioxidant, but because it’s water-soluble, your body can’t store it so you need to get enough of it every day. Vitamin C is essential to basic body-building functions and disease prevention, and is needed for the growth and repair of tissues in all parts of the body. Vitamin C supplementation is especially important when you’re under physical and emotional stress.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eSuggested Use: 1-3 tablets daily \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"PATHWAY","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32343519461507,"sku":"19309","price":11.55,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0319\/0960\/9603\/products\/vitamin-c-500-100.jpg?v=1595903144"},{"product_id":"evening-primrose-oil-1","title":"Evening Primrose Oil","description":"\u003cp class=\"bodycopy1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eNourish the Body with GLA\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Evening primrose oil provides an excellent source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA helps to promote the production of anti-inflammatory chemicals in the body and may be helpful for the discomfort of PMS, joint pain and swelling, various skin conditions, and to nourish hair and nails. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eSuggested Use: 1 softgel 2-3 times daily with meals\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"PATHWAY","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32343522017411,"sku":"19317","price":16.56,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0319\/0960\/9603\/files\/LeadSnapPhotos.png?v=1777304061"},{"product_id":"super-omega-3-ec","title":"Super Omega-3 EC","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEnteric Coating Reduces Fish Burps\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSuper Omega-3 \u003c\/strong\u003eis molecularly distilled for purity and contains high concentrations of the essential fatty acids Omega-3 EPA \u0026amp; DHA (300 mg \u0026amp; 200 mg respectively). Omega-3 fatty acids are very important, supportive nutrient of cardio health as well as brain and ocular health. Each softgel is enteric coated to eliminate the odor and fishy aftertaste typically associated with taking a fish oil capsule. Enteric coating also protects the softgel capsules from being digested in the stomach and allows the fish oil to reach to the lower GI tract for absorption.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eSuggested Use: 1 softgel 2 times daily\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"PATHWAY","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32343880401027,"sku":"21971","price":36.04,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0319\/0960\/9603\/products\/super-omega-3-ec.jpg?v=1582793337"},{"product_id":"vitamin-d-3-1000-iu-1","title":"Vitamin D-3 1000 IU","description":"\u003cp class=\"bodycopy1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eImportant Bone Building Vitamin\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Vitamin D plays a key role in helping to maintain bone density and bone strength. It also supports cardiovascular health, mental health, skin health, as well as immune system health. 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It also supports cardiovascular health, mental health, skin health, as well as immune system health. Even though the human body can manufacture Vitamin D under ideal circumstances, much of the American population suffers from a Vitamin D deficiency. Vitamin D-3 is the more bioactive form of Vitamin D. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eSuggested Use: 1 softgel daily\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"PATHWAY","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32344086970499,"sku":"24926","price":24.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0319\/0960\/9603\/products\/vitamin-d-3-2000.jpg?v=1582794238"},{"product_id":"evening-primrose-oil-1300-mg","title":"Evening Primrose Oil 1300 Mg","description":"\u003cp class=\"bodycopy1\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eNourish the Body with GLA\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eEvening primrose oil provides an excellent source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). 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With this revolutionary formula, you'll know you're getting the levels and the range of vitamins, minerals and cofactors we recommend for comprehensive everyday support. Plus, this formula incorporates the latest research on nutrient transport and interaction to enhance absorption, so you may actually feel the difference. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eSuggested Use: Take 4 capsules daily divided among meals\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"PATHWAY","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32346963083395,"sku":"2715","price":31.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0319\/0960\/9603\/products\/multi-two-caps_1.jpg?v=1582804186"},{"product_id":"vitamin-d-3-1000-iu-2","title":"Vitamin D-3 1000 IU","description":"Vitamin D plays a key role in helping to maintain bone density and bone strength. It also supports cardiovascular health, mental health, skin health, as well as immune system health. 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