Abstract
People with the Multiple Sclerosis (PwMS) modify their diet, however their knowledge of diet is unknown and dietary modifications may have long term health implications. We set out to assess the feasibility of a study to determine diet patterns compared to national nutritional guidelines in PwMS, and in those with and without fatigue.
Methods
In this cross sectional study four MS support groups were attended throughout the Thames Valley area, with approximately 20 to 25 people attending each group at any one point in time. Measures of feasibility were sought. Descriptive statistics were used to determine inconsistencies in nutrient intake in PwMS with and without fatigue compared to the Scientific Advisory Committee on Nutrition guidelines.
Results
31 PwMS provided dietary data using a Food Frequency Questionnaire, alongside the Fatigue Severity Scale, Barthel Index activities of daily living and demographic data. One third of participants were on a modified diet. Compared to the UK nutrition guidelines, several nutrients were ±1 standard deviation in PwMS, and PwMS tended to miss targets for diet guidelines. Those who were fatigued showed further differences in nutrient intake compared to those who were non-fatigued, and women tended to have healthier diets than men. Missing data was low and response rate was high
Conclusion
For the first time data is provided that shows PwMS may have altered dietary intake compared to national guidelines. Furthermore, those who were fatigued show further differences compared to non-fatigued PwMS. Considering the high incidence of modified diets in this group, more substantial investigation of diet is required.
Keywords
Fatigue; Diet; Multiple Sclerosis; Activities in daily living
Abbreviations
ADL: Barthel Index Activities of Daily Living; EPIC: The European Prospective Investigation into Cancer; FSS: Fatigue Severity Scale; FFQ: Food Frequency Questionnaire; PwMS: People with Multiple Sclerosis; SACN:The Scientific and Advisory Committee on Nutrition