MS: magnesium, selenium and manganese

Magnesium is an important supplement for anyone with MS, as magnesium is needed to help convert linoleic acid to gamma linoleic acid and a magnesium deficiency will affect this conversion process. A magnesium deficiency impairs the functions of the nervous muscles and can be associated with tremors, seizures, spasms, and an inability to control the bladder. Studies have shown that people with MS are low in magnesium, which is vital for the digestion of essential fatty acids and for helping to transmit nerve impulses to the muscles.

Selenium is a mineral and is one of the protective bodies as an antioxidant and is present in an enzyme called glutathione peroxidase (GTP). The purpose of GTP in your body is to destroy substances that attack your cells before they can do any harm, and a selenium deficiency reduces the efficiency of GTP leaving your cells open to attack. Selenium makes white blood cells more effective in fighting disease, and many people with MS are low in selenium.

Manganese can sometimes be confused with magnesium, but the reason for taking a manganese supplement is to counteract zinc supplements because as your zinc level increases, the manganese decreases. Manganese is one of the main defenders of the nervous system and is actively involved in the fight against autoimmune diseases. A manganese deficiency has been found to cause balance problems, fatigue, depression, and allergies.

Magnesium can be found naturally in foods like almonds, sunflower and sesame seeds and can also be taken as a supplement. Selenium can be found naturally in seafood along with tuna, onions, tomatoes, broccoli, and bran. Manganese can be found naturally in nuts, cereals, tropical fruits, egg yolk, and in various spices such as ginger, turmeric, cloves, cardamom, and black pepper. As an antioxidant, selenium must be taken in conjunction with vitamins C and E.

While supplements are important for anyone with MS, they will only work at their best when combined with a healthy diet. Besides supplements, I now have a great diet plan and am eating all the right foods to fight my MS. In recent years, this has resulted in a decrease in my symptoms and a complete reversal of some symptoms. You are in full control of your diet and it made perfect sense to me to do something about the things that I had control over, rather than thinking about things that I had no control over.

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