Comparing Ketogenic and Mediterranean Diets for Quality of Life Improvement in Adults With Multiple Sclerosis

What this Trial Is About

Multiple sclerosis MS is an inflammatory neurological disease influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Researchers are studying how diet affects MS risk and progression, focusing on patterns like the Mediterranean diet MedDiet and ketogenic diet therapies KDTs. Previous studies suggest that MedDiet may lower MS severity and risk, while KDTs, including the modified Atkins diet MAD, have shown potential benefits in animal models and small human studies for improving symptoms and reducing inflammation. This study compares the effects of a modified Atkins diet MAD with a Mediterranean diet on quality of life in people with MS. Participants will be randomly assigned to follow either the MedDiet, MAD with up to 20 grams of carbohydrates daily, or continue their usual diet as a control. Diet plans will be tailored individually, accounting for calorie needs, protein intake, and physical activity. The study will last 6 months. During the study, participants will undergo assessments at the start and after 6 months, including quality of life evaluations using the Multiple Sclerosis Quality of Life-54, disability scoring with the Expanded Disability Status Scale, motor function tests, fatigue scales, sleep quality, and depression inventories. Monthly phone interviews will monitor diet adherence and changes in physical activity or supplement use. The research aims to understand how these diets influence quality of life and other clinical outcomes in MS.

Multiple Sclerosis and the Effects of Ketogenic Diet Therapy