Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune condition as a result of which there occurs demyelination of the nerve cells especially in the regions on the brain and the spinal cord. It can be a debilitating condition which can also lead to progressive degeneration if left untreated. There is as yet no known cause for multiple sclerosis but it seems to be affecting a larger number of people annually across the world. While signs and symptoms vary among people the most commonly reported symptoms of multiple sclerosis include problems with the autonomic nervous responses and impaired visual and sensory functioning. Muscle weakness, difficulties in movement coordination, balance and stability and an electric sensation that runs also the spinal column known as Lhermitte’s sign are also common indicators.

While MS is an auto-immune condition that is medically treated by administering specific immunosuppressants, long-term research indicates that specific foods are to be avoided while other foods are beneficial in an alleviation of symptoms. However, since in the case multiple sclerosis symptoms may appear and disappear with no specific periodicity or pattern, it is often hard to identify if a specific food or diet alone is effective.

Generally, a high consumption of saturated fats has been linked to the appearance of an aggravation of symptoms of multiple sclerosis.

One of the currently recommended diets for those with Multiple sclerosis is the popularly known Swank diet which was developed by a neurologist, Dr.