A new research suggests that eating more fish may help slow the progression of disability in people living with multiple sclerosis (MS). The findings, published in the Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery & Psychiatry, indicate that both lean and oily fish could offer protective benefits for individuals diagnosed with the condition.
The study followed 2,719 people with MS for up to 15 years, examining their dietary habits at the time of diagnosis and throughout the follow-up period. Researchers discovered that participants who reported higher overall fish consumption were less likely to experience confirmed disability worsening over time. They were also less likely to reach significant disability milestones, which were assessed using the Expanded Disability Status Scale, a common tool for measuring disease progression in MS.
Importantly, individuals who consistently maintained moderate to high fish intake over the years showed even stronger associations with slower disability progression compared to those whose intake varied or remained low. This suggests that long-term dietary patterns, rather than short-term changes, may play a meaningful role.
Scientists believe the potential benefits may be linked to nutrients found in fish, particularly omega-3 fatty acids. These compounds are known for their anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. Since MS involves inflammation and damage to the nervous system, nutrients that help reduce inflammation and protect nerve cells could theoretically influence the course of the disease.
However, researchers caution that this was an observational study, meaning it can identify associations but cannot definitively prove that fish consumption directly slows MS progression. Even so, the findings add to a growing body of evidence supporting the broader health benefits of fish as part of a balanced diet.
They said
Our findings suggest that higher fish consumption is associated with a reduced risk of disability progression in MS, likely due to the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of nutrients found in fish,
These results highlight the potential importance of dietary habits in managing MS.
