A Mediterranean-Type Diet Improved Systemic Inflammation in Multiple Sclerosis Patients, As Compared to the Traditional Iranian Diet: A Single-Center Randomized Controlled Trial Publisher



Mirashrafi S¹ ; Borzooisfahani M² ; Namjoo I² ; Hojjati Kermani MA³ ; Moravejolahkami AR¹
Source: Mediterranean Journal of Nutrition and Metabolism Published:2021

Abstract

BACKGROUND: There is overwhelming scientific evidence that dietary modifications is beneficial in neurodegenerative diseases like Multiple Sclerosis (MS). OBJECTIVE: The goal of this study was to explore the effects of modified Mediterranean Diet (mMeD) on systemic inflammation, anthropometric indices, and relapse rate in MS patients. METHODS: This single-center, randomized controlled trial compared mMeD and traditional Iranian diet (as control) during six months in 180 Relapsing-Remitting MS (RRMS) patients. Serum high sensitivity C Reactive Protein (hs-CRP), body weight, Body Mass Index (BMI), percent body fat, and relapse rate were evaluated at baseline, and 3 and 6 months later. Multivariate analysis of covariance test (MANCOVA; conducted by SPSS 24) was adjusted for age, gender, family history, duration of MS and education level. RESULTS: Of 261 screened patients (July 2018-February 2019), 180 patients were eligible; 68/90 as mMeD and 79/90 as control group completed the study. Self-reported adherence was excellent (95%). The mean change on the relapse rate was-0.54±0.9 compared to-0.03±0.4 for control group (P = 0.004). In addition, hs-CRP levels decreased in the mMeD group (-2.9±3.3 mg/L; P < 0.001) and mean changes were significant between two groups (P < 0.001). Anthropometric indices were modified in mMeD group, whereas between-group comparisons were not statistically different. CONCLUSIONS: Overall, mMeD improved inflammatory status and relapse rate in RRMS patients. Future trials with larger scale and longer duration should be conducted to confirm the role of diet as a disease-modifier in MS. © 2021-IOS Press. All rights reserved.