Dietary choices play a crucial part in supporting our health. For those living with multiple sclerosis (MS), diet becomes especially important for managing the variety of symptoms tied to this autoimmune condition.
The Wahls Protocol diet is widely embraced within the MS community, and it’s not hard to see why. Developed by Terry Wahls, MD, this approach highlights how food influences the course and symptom control of MS.
Following her MS diagnosis in 2000, Dr. Wahls immersed herself in studies about nutrition and autoimmune disorders. She found that a nutrient-dense paleo-style eating plan — rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential fatty acids — helped alleviate many of her symptoms.
The Wahls Protocol aligns closely with paleo principles but places extra emphasis on consuming a greater variety and quantity of fruits and vegetables.
If you give the Wahls Protocol a try, expect to eat heaps of spinach, kale, cabbage, mushrooms, onions, broccoli, carrots, and beets. Colorful fruits like blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries are encouraged, along with grass-fed meats and wild-caught fish.
Below are three simple recipes to help you get started following the Wahls Protocol.
Kale Waldorf Salad
This salad pairs kale and walnuts, both known for their anti-inflammatory properties, a cornerstone of the Wahls Protocol. We suggest using green apples for this dish, since they typically contain less sugar compared with other apple varieties.
Chicken, Squash, and Greens Bowl
The combination of chicken, roasted butternut squash, and mixed leafy greens supplies essential micronutrients, antioxidants, and nourishing fats that support brain and immune function—components central to the Wahls Protocol.
Blackberry Parfait
Blackberries are a low-glycemic fruit packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, making them a good match for the Wahls Protocol. They’re layered with Greek yogurt for a quality source of protein and healthy fats. Adding coconut flakes and pistachios introduces additional healthy fats and fiber, in keeping with the protocol’s focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods.
The takeaway
The Wahls Protocol, akin to a paleo-style diet, emphasizes nutrient-rich foods to support symptom management in MS. More research is necessary to fully determine its effects on the condition.
Eating a well-rounded, balanced diet can benefit overall health and may help reduce MS-related symptoms. If you have MS, consult your physician and a registered dietitian to tailor the best dietary plan to your individual needs.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.