The link between diet and Multiple Sclerosis (MS) in children is to be investigated in a new study.
Research will look at the largely unknown role of diet – including ultra-processed foods, fish and dairy products – in the onset of MS at a young age.
The role of diet in adults with MS has been explored in previous studies, and has helped to highlight the benefits of a Mediterranean diet in lowering the risk of problems with memory and thinking skills.
Now, this new Curtin University study will gain insights which could lead to the creation of evidence-based dietary advice for children at high risk of developing MS.
“There has been a considerable increase in the number of children being diagnosed with MS in recent years and while it remains rare in children, those with a family history of MS are known to be at greater risk of developing the disease,” lead researcher Dr Eleanor Dunlop, from the Curtin School of Population Health, said.
“Although nutritional factors have long been of interest in Multiple Sclerosis research, little is known about the influence of diet on the likelihood of a child developing MS.”
Dr Dunlop said the new research would draw on dietary intake information collected from children with MS and healthy children as part of a study conducted in Canada, led by Professor Helen Tremlett at the University of British Columbia.
“Using this information, we will investigate whether diets, foods or nutrients may help to reduce the risk of children developing MS,” Dr Dunlop said.
“The influence of several dietary factors, including consuming ultra-processed foods, dairy products, fish and other nutrients, will be explored in relation to their link with the onset of MS in childhood.
“The findings of our study will provide evidence to support dietary guidance for children at high risk of developing MS.”
