2. Trans Fats
While trans fats have effectively been banned in the United States — the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) determined that manufacturers would no longer be allowed to sell foods containing partially hydrogenated oil — trans fats also occur naturally in small amounts in food products from ruminant animals (such as milk, butter, cheese, meat products), and the FDA’s actions have not affected these natural sources of trans fat. Low-fat or nonfat dairy products are a better choice than full-fat ones, as is trimming visible fat off of meat and poultry.
“We know that trans fats increase inflammation inside blood vessels, and thus could lead to cardiovascular problems,” says Amy Jamieson-Petonic, RD, a senior administrator at University Hospitals Primary Care Institute in Cleveland.
3. Ultra-Processed Foods
A study of 106 people with MS found an association between higher intake of UPFs and worse MS severity. A larger study found a weak yet statistically significant association between higher UPF consumption (including carbonated drinks, ready-to-eat or -heat meals, and industrial-processed breads) and increased risk of MS in middle-aged and older adults. And a systematic review of studies found that a higher intake of UPFs was significantly related to an enhanced risk of MS.
4. Added Sugars
Too much added sugar can contribute to weight gain. “You don’t want to increase your weight, because it’s going to make it more difficult for you to be mobile and perform activities of daily living,” says Jamieson-Petonic. Excess weight also increases fatigue, a common symptom of MS.
Refined sugars can cause blood sugar spikes and crashes, which can contribute to fatigue.
5. Sodium
Ideally, most adults should aim for less than 1,500 milligrams of sodium a day, according to the American Heart Association.
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